2023 Nicaragua News Briefs by Nan McCurdy
June 29, 2023
Commemorating Historic Milestone in International Law
On June 27, President Daniel Ortega sent a letter to the Secretary General of the United Nations (UN), António Guterres, with relation to the ruling handed down by the International Court of Justice (World Court) on June 27, 1986, in which the United States was condemned for its war of aggression against Nicaragua and ordered to compensate the country. The President stated, “At a time when there are discussions in the United Nations and other forums about the much-deserved compensations that should be established to compensate for the damages caused by slavery and climate change, among others, Nicaragua takes this opportunity to recall that there is a historical debt with the Nicaraguan people that 37 years later has not been settled by the United States.”
Ortega went on to say, “It is not an obligation pending to be established or subject to an advisory opinion of a judicial body. It is an obligation clearly established in a final judgment of the highest international judicial authority, the International Court of Justice.” He remembered that, “On June 27, 1986, the International Court of Justice issued a judgment condemning the United States of America to compensate Nicaragua for all damages caused as a consequence of military and paramilitary activities against Nicaragua. Although the Court recognized that, in a situation of armed aggression such as that carried out by the United States, no amount of reparation – neither economic nor moral – could compensate for the devastation of the country, the loss of human lives and the physical and psychological wounds of the Nicaraguan people, the Court decided that the United States had a legal obligation to make economic reparations to Nicaragua for all the damages caused.”
The President continued, “The compensation due to Nicaragua remains unpaid. Nicaragua discontinued the proceeding before the Court for the determination of the amount due, but at no time did it waive payment of the debt, i.e., the right to receive its compensation.” He noted that, “Instead of receiving compensation as is morally and legally due, Nicaragua continues to be the object of a new form of aggression.” He stated that that new form consists of sanctions and an attempted coup d’état and that it is “in this context that the people of Nicaragua recall the historic sentence of the International Court of Justice.” In finishing, Ortega said that, “Nicaragua takes this opportunity to recall that the judgments of the International Court of Justice are final and of obligatory compliance, and therefore the United States has the obligation to comply with the reparations ordered by the ruling of June 27, 1986.”
Dr. Carlos Argüello, Nicaragua’s representative to the World Court at The Hague, stated that “the ruling has had pre-eminent importance in international law. In any university in the world where international law is taught or discussed, this case is cited as one of the main examples with greatest worldwide impact. It is a historic milestone not only from a legal perspective but also for the peace and sovereignty of States.” For his part, Dan Kovalik, lawyer and professor specializing in International Law noted that “The ICJ decision is considered one of the most important in international law because it enunciated customary principles that jurists still apply today: War of aggression is illegal; the right of a nation to self-defense is only triggered by an actual armed attack; there is no right to ideological or humanitarian intervention; and a State cannot legally support armed insurrection against another sovereign State.” Although rulings are binding for United Nations member states, the United States has never complied with the verdict and refuses to pay the billions of dollars in reparations ordered by the Court, estimated at US$17 billion then, equivalent to US$78 billion today. (Informe Pastran, 27 June 2023; Nicaragua News, 27 June 2023)
Nicaragua Leader in Gender Equality Worldwide and First in the Americas
Once again, according to the annual World Economic Forum 2023 Gender Gap Index, Nicaragua has ranked in 7th place worldwide in gender equality, and first in all of the Americas. Nicaragua has the strongest parliamentary representation in the world with 51.65% of seats in its National Assembly being held by women. Nicaragua is also number one in women professional & technical workers, women’s educational attainment, women’s literacy, women’s enrollment in third-level education and women in ministerial position.
Nicaragua, only surpassed by five Western European countries and New Zealand, repeats the same position as last year. In Latin America, after Nicaragua, Costa Rica is 14th, Chile is 27th and Mexico is 33rd. The worst positions in the region, although not all countries are reflected in the indicator, are held by Uruguay (67th), El Salvador (68th), Paraguay (91st) and Guatemala (118th). Latin America, as a whole, ranks as the third region in the world with the greatest equality between men and women, as it is considered to have closed its gender gap to 74.3 %, only behind Europe (76.3%) and North America (75%). (Nicaragua Sandino and EFE, 21 June 2023)
Nicaragua Promotes Responsible Parenthood
“On the Nicaraguan Father’s Day every June 23, it should be recognized that the State has created a set of laws to promote responsible fatherhood,” said National Assembly deputy Carlos Emilio López. He stated that the Family Code establishes that parents must be responsible and assume the upbringing, maintenance and education of their children, while the Constitution states that family relations must be based on shared responsibilities. “In the Code of Childhood and Adolescence, it states that children have the right to a family and that they should not receive abuse, mistreatment, violence or discrimination from their parents. So the laws of Nicaragua summon us to exercise responsible, present and loving parenthood.” He added that “parenthood is for life, and there is no divorce with children; on the contrary, they must strengthen the bonds to form men and women with values and the humanism that society requires. The government is promoting values in schools with the purpose of eradicating violent, aggressive and authoritarian parenting, with which many generations were raised,” said Lopez, member of the Women, Children, and Family Committee of the National Assembly. (Radio La Primerisima, 23 June 2023)
45 Cases of Violence Seen in House-to-House Visits
The officers of the Women’s Police Stations received 45 complaints in the house-to-house visits carried out during the week of June 15 to 21. General Commissioner Johana Plata, head of the police stations, said that ten complaints by women were for criminal offenses and six of the aggressors have already been captured. The Police Chief said that 2,510 talks were given to mothers and their families to prevent violence against women and other family members. (Radio La Primerisima, 22 June 2023)
Influenza Vaccination Campaign Underway
To date 316,335 people have been vaccinated against influenza in the national vaccination campaign that extends from June 19 to 30. The Director of the Expanded Immunization Program, Jazmina Umaña, stated that “600,000 doses of the influenza vaccine will be administered to persons 50 years and older during the campaign, as well as those with chronic diseases, pregnant women and healthcare personnel.” See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/mas-300-mil-personas-han-sido-vacunadas-contra-la-influenza/ (Radio La Primerisima, 26 June 2023)
Ophthalmology Center in Matagalpa and Health Post in Chinandega Ready
The rehabilitation of the Carlos Fonseca Amador Ophthalmology Center, to better serve more than 35,000 patients from Estelí, Jinotega, León, Chinandega, Masaya, Boaco, Matagalpa, and the North and South Caribbean Coast, is ready. The Ministry of Health also said that improvements were finished to the Dr. Agustín Santamaría Romero Health Post in the community of Belén, Department of Chinandega, where 1,187 inhabitants will be attended in good conditions. Dr. Agustín Santamaría collaborated with logistics and served as an FSLN courier between a guerrilla camp and the city. He was murdered on June 1979 by the Somoza’s genocidal National Guard; his remains were never found. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/listo-centro-oftalmologico-en-matagalpa-y-puesto-de-salud-en-chinandega/ (Radio La Primerisima, 22 June 2022)
Ensuring Access to Health Care for Senior Citizens
The Porfirio García Care Center for Seniors in the Hilario Sánchez Vásquez neighborhood of Managua was inaugurated on June 23. Along with the building itself this project includes diagnostic equipment, specialized care, and clinical management for patients with chronic diseases and/or disabilities, and for the early detection and care of cancer, benefiting 55,000 seniors. Attention will be provided in neurology, cardiology, internal medicine, orthopedics, urology, rehabilitation medicine, and dentistry, among others. It has equipment for ultrasounds, electrocardiograms, electromyography, endoscopy, audiometry, laboratory exams, and more. In addition, it will be the Training Center for Health Personnel for the Care of Seniors. Nicaragua invested US$1.53 million in this center. (Nicaragua Sandino, 23 June 2023)
English as a Second Language for All Children
Soon sixth grade children will graduate from primary school with two years of English, a milestone in the history of English teaching in the country, said the Minister of Education Liliam Herrera on June 26. As part of the work to achieve this, the authorities of the Ministry of Education, INATEC and teachers at the National Autonomous University (UNAN) began a workshop called “First Dynamic On” to reinforce the knowledge of the facilitators, who will prepare about 1,800 teachers across the country to teach English in the classroom. It is “a strategy that has been a dream, but today crystallizes, the dream that all our children will speak English as a second language. “We are preparing special workshops with teachers who are going to replicate this strategy to teach English,” commented Jaime López Lowery, technical secretary of the National Council of Universities. (Radio La Primerisima, 26 June 2023)
Higher Economic Growth Reported
The Central Bank published its 2023 First Quarter Gross Domestic Product Report which states that the Gross Domestic Product registered 3.5% growth during the first quarter of the year. The economic sectors with the greatest contribution to GDP growth during this period were hotel and restaurants (27.5%); mining (13.3%); transportation and communication (6.8%); commerce (5.6%); services (5.2%). (Nicaragua News, 22 June 2023)
Sandinistas Commemorate the Repliegue
Beginning in the early morning of June 24, thousands of Sandinistas gathered in San Judas, Managua, to participate in the 44th anniversary commemoration of the Retreat from Managua to the Hacienda El Vapor in Masaya in homage to Sandinista heroes and martyrs. In 1979 the Retreat to El Vapor was a life-saving strategy that consisted of a gathering of the Sandinista forces in the sector of San Judas and surrounding neighborhoods and all-night walk to Masaya. The revolutionaries had run out of ammunition and the Somocista National Guard at that moment was carrying out a “cleanup” operation in Managua neighborhoods. This remembrance of the strategic retreat was dedicated to the heroes and martyrs Bertha Calderón and Oscar Lino Paz. See photos here: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/miles-de-militantes-sandinistas-rememoran-repliegue-al-vapor/ (Radio La Primerisima, 25 June 2023)
June 22, 2023
More than 5,000 Women Receive Attention in Mega Health Fair in Bilwi
The Ministry of Health, in coordination with the Regional Government and the Mayor’s Office of Puerto Cabezas, celebrated the maternal and fetal mega fair with attention in health to more than 5,000 mostly Indigenous women from the North Caribbean (Miskito, Mayangana, Afro-descendant, and Mestizo-Indigenous from Tawira, Tasba Pri, Prinzu Auhya Un, Twi Yahbra, Twi Waupasa, Kárata, Wangki Maya, Wangki Twi, Tasba Raya, Awas Tingni and distant communities of the Río Coco and San Carlos). Sixty maternal and fetal specialists provided attention to the women thanks to the government program that continues to restore health care rights to the Caribbean population. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/mas-de-5-mil-mujeres-atendidas-en-mega-feria-de-salud-en-bilwi/ (Radio La Primerisima, 17 June 2023)
Senior Citizens’ Health Center to Be Inaugurated June 23
The first geriatrician in the public health system will be providing care at the Porfirio Garcia National Center for the Elderly located in the Hilario Sanchez neighborhood in Managua’s District IV. Dr. Carolina Dávila, presidential advisor for health care in Managua, emphasized that geriatrics is the specialty for the care of the elderly. In the national center for the elderly, about 400 people will be attended daily, with specialties like internal medicine, ophthalmology, urology, gynecology, physiotherapy, natural medicine, as well as endoscopies, ultrasounds and other specialized studies. The center will be inaugurated June 23 and will begin providing medical attention on June 26. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/casi-construido-centro-del-adulto-mayor-don-porfirio-garcia/ (Radio La Primerisima, 20 June 2023)
Nearly Ten Million Loaned to Producers and Entrepreneurs So Far in 2023
The Ministry of Family Economy reported on June 16 that the Program to Finance Production, Entrepreneurship and Small Businesses (ADELANTE) has provided US$9.65 million to 5,358 small farmers and entrepreneurs between January and May this year to strengthen the quality and competitiveness of products and services they offer in rural and urban areas. The ADELANTE program is part of the Creative Economy Model implemented to promote integral economic development. (Nicaragua News, 19 June 2023)
Tourism Revenue in 2022 Doubles that of 2021
Nicaragua’s earnings from tourism in 2022 were US$596 million, 2.2 times more than in 2021 (US$184 million) due to higher daily per capita spending by non-resident visitors, which rose from US$35.8 in 2021 to US$41.1 in 2022, an increase of 14.7%. Arriving by air were 52.2% of the visitors, while land travel accounted for 47.3%, and water travel for 0.5%. (Informe Pastran, 19 June 2023)
Arts Schools Established in 159 Communities
The government, through the Nicaraguan Institute of Culture, the Rubén Darío National Theater, and the mayors’ offices, has succeeded in taking the arts to 159 new communities, where courses in areas such as dance, singing, choir, recorder, guitar, drawing and painting are taught. To date more than 2,000 students have enrolled, 1,286 females and 868 males. The mayors’ offices continue to contribute to the restoration of the right to culture of children, young people and adults, guaranteeing art for all in urban and rural areas. (Radio La Primerisima, 19 June 2023)
Nearly 95% of Nicaraguans Are Fully Vaccinated Against Covid-19
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reported last week that with 94.7% of the population fully vaccinated [with two shots] against Covid-19, Nicaragua is the country in Central American with the highest percentage of fully vaccinated population, followed by Costa Rica (84.8%); Panama (72.9%); El Salvador (68.8%); Honduras (58.1%); Guatemala (41.5%). (Nicaragua News, 16 June 2023)
Regional Epidemiology Lab Rehabilitated
The rehabilitation of the regional epidemiology laboratory in Managua is complete. This lab will carry out bacteriological studies on the quality of water and food and is scheduled to open on June 20. It will also serve to improve epidemiological surveillance, making faster diagnoses of diseases such as influenza, dengue, chinkungunya, leptospirosis, Covid-19, HIV, and tuberculosis, among others. It has equipment such as biosafety cabinets, centrifuges, microscopes, a biological safety cabinet, and an ultra-low-temperature freezer. (Radio La Primerisima, 20 June 2023)
Central Bank Reports Solid Economic Growth
On June 20, the Central Bank reported that economic activity showed positive performance, registering an inter-annual GDP growth of 3.5% (2.4% in the previous quarter). With this result, the annual average growth stood at 3.4% (10.3% in 2021), according to the preliminary estimate. According to the report, the positive inter-annual evolution of the GDP was due to the growth in activities of hotels and restaurants (27.5%), mining and quarrying (13.3%), transportation and communications (6.8%), commerce (5.6%), other services (5.2%), financial intermediation and related services (4.4%), and the manufacturing industry (3.3%), among others. The report points out that from the expenditure perspective, the growth of the GDP was determined by the increase in the net external demand for goods and services, due to the growth of exports (7.1%) and the decrease in imports (-4.0%). Domestic demand decreased as a consequence of a lower expenditure in gross capital formation, which was partially offset by the increase in consumption expenditure.
This past quarter, agriculture grew 1.7% as a result of the greater generation of added value in coffee, corn, beans, sorghum, rice, soybeans, peanuts, sesame and tobacco, among others. Livestock activity registered a decrease of 0.3%. Mining and quarrying grew 13.3%. The manufacturing industry grew 3.3%, as a result of higher production of dairy products, tobacco, textiles, petroleum derivatives, and vehicle harnesses, among others. This performance was partially offset by decreases in the production of meat products, sugar, beverages, and non-metallic products, among others. Construction activity decreased 1.2%, due to decreases in private construction and increases in public construction. In private construction, there was a decrease in construction for residential, services and industrial buildings, and an increase in commercial construction. In public construction, there was growth in the components of non-residential buildings and civil engineering works. Transportation and communications activities grew 6.8%. Financial intermediation services grew 4.4%, due to an increase in the loan portfolio and higher deposits in foreign and domestic currency. Homeownership activity grew 1.5%. Public administration and defense activity grew 0.3% as a result of increased services offered by the government to the population.
Health services grew 2.3%. Consumption showed a year-over-year growth of 2.9%. Exports of goods and services grew 7.1%. In the goods sector, exports of mining products, sugar, dairy products, tobacco, textiles, harnesses, among others, increased. In services exports, growth was recorded in air and maritime transportation services, communications, insurance services, among others. (Radio La Primerisima, 20 June 2023)
New Loan from CABEI for more than US$800 million
Nicaragua and the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) signed a new Technical Cooperation Contract for US$810 million to build the conduction channel of the Carlos Fonseca Hydroelectric Plant of Nicaragua. This is to finance the preparation of the diagnosis, analysis of alternatives, feasibility studies and final detailed design of the works, which will be executed by the Nicaraguan Electricity Company (ENEL). (Informe Pastran, 19 June 2023)
June 15, 2023
Iranian Delegation Led by President Raisi Visits Nicaragua
In her greeting to the visitors, Vice President Rosario Murillo said, “It is an honor to receive the distinguished delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, headed by President Dr. Ibrahim Raisi.” President Raisi and President Daniel Ortega both addressed the nation on the night of June 13 in Managua. Both mentioned that the Nicaraguan and the Iranian revolutions were twin revolutions, overcoming US-backed dictatorships in 1979. President Raisi said that Iran hopes to increase development cooperation with Nicaragua. He also said that sanctions are used by certain countries as an instrument to break the people.
The Iranian delegation is composed of the ministers of health, oil, culture, and economic diplomacy, as well as legislative deputies. It also includes Dr. Yamile Alamuddin, Iran’s first lady, who has a doctorate in psychology and is an expert in Islamic education. The First Lady met with students and communicators at the Casa de la Soberanía Padre Miguel D’Escoto where there was a presentation of two books with the participation of academics, university leaders and ministers. At the meeting with the President of Iran, the Nicaraguan Minister of the Family, the Minister of Youth, the Rector of the National Council of Universities (CNU) and the Ministers of Education, Science and Technology were also present. Vice President Murillo said “We are honored and pleased to receive this important fraternal delegation from the Islamic Republic of Iran.” [The delegation arrived on June 13 and left for Cuba on June 14.] See more here: https://www.tn8.tv/nacionales/revoluciones-mas-fortalecidas-iran-y-nicaragua-afianzan-relaciones-estrategicas/ (TN8TV, 13 June 2023, Radio La Primerisima, 14 June 2023)
Nicaraguan Exports Increase in First Quarter 2023
On June 8 the Inter-American Development Bank published its “Trade Trends Estimates Latin America and the Caribbean-2023 Edition: First Quarter” Report. It noted that Nicaragua exports totaled US$1.13 billion between January and March 2023, 5.8% more than the same period in 2022. “Nicaragua and Costa Rica are the only Central American economies that registered export growth during the first three months of the year. In the case of Nicaragua, this is mainly due to an increase in imports by the US market, as well as greater export of sugar, automotive harnesses, and gold,” the IADB report states. (Nicaragua News, 9 June 2023)
High Rating Improves Nicaragua’s Status in World Market
The indicators highlighted by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) on the growth of exports during the first quarter of 2022 allow a better qualification of Nicaragua before multilateral organisms, highlighted deputy José Figueroa, Vice Chair of the Economic Committee of the National Assembly. He said that the result highlighted by the IDB corresponds with other indicators such as the growth of the economy. “It is very important that an organization such as the IDB highlights [the growth of exports] because others such as the Food and Agricultural Organization have already highlighted it, especially food production, and the increase in exports that will allow Nicaragua to position itself in a better way in the international market,” he explained. He said that this is only the beginning, because Nicaragua has been diversifying its markets and when the Free Trade Agreement with China is approved export growth will be greater and the indicators will be more positive. (Radio La Primerisima, 9 June 2023)
Construction of Deep-Water Port in Bluefields Is Strategic for Development
Presidential delegate for the South Caribbean Autonomous Region Johnny Hodgson described the importance of the construction of a deep-water port in Bluefields for all of Nicaragua. “This project is part of the Development Plan and the Caribbean Coast Development Strategy that will have a social and economic impact for all of Nicaragua. One of the most important things is that it does not generate public debt,” he said. He added that this month the construction of 7.2 kilometers of road to the area where this port will be built will begin followed by dredging works. “The execution of this project will last four years, with an investment of US$500 million, which is expected to generate many profits,” he detailed. “I see many of you working on this project, facilitating the entry of these huge ships to our Caribbean Coast and facilitating the export of our products,” he told students at the Bluefields Indian and Caribbean University (BICU). The Regional Autonomous Council of the Southern Caribbean Coast (CRACCS), through the Natural Resources Commission, voted to approve the Deepwater Port project. Presidential Delegate Hodgson made his remarks as the main speaker at an academic conference at BICU with the theme “Challenges and Opportunities in the Creation of the Deepwater Port.” (Radio La Primerisima, 9 June 2023)
Almost 2.5 Million Children Served with “Healthy Schools” Plan
The Ministry of Health reported that, in the National Plan “Healthy Schools” as of June 8, 2,480,500 attentions had been provided. According to the latest bulletin, 467,782 children have had their blood pressure measured, detecting 659 alterations; 449,502 children had their visual acuity checked, identifying 5,283 with alterations; and 395,785 talks were given to students, parents and teachers on personal hygiene. Likewise, 386,076 language evaluations were performed, detecting 4,166 with speech disorders; 385,457 hearing evaluations were performed, detecting 3,825 with disorders; 215,113 lice identification checks were carried out, delousing 63,127. A total of 180,785 demonstrations of good toothbrushing techniques were given and 22,543 children had cavities repaired and filled. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/casi-dos-millones-y-medio-de-ninos-atendidos-con-plan-escuelas-saludables/ (Radio La Primerisima, 9 June 2023)
Literacy Census Underway
On June 10 the Ministry of Education and the National Association of Educators, launched the 2023 National Educational Coverage and Literacy Census. The purpose of the census is to update illiteracy and school attendance information and improve access to education at all levels through programs such as Rural Education, Inclusive Special Education, and Over-Schooling-Age Education. Education Minister Lilliam Herrera noted that “Nicaragua went from an illiteracy level of 12% in 2007 to 5% in 2022 and achieved educational coverage of 80%. This data shows that as a country we are capable of eradicating illiteracy. Over the next twenty days this important census will help to gather essential information so that our education system can continue to guarantee full access to education as a right for all Nicaraguans.” (Nicaragua News, 12 June 2023)
Most People in Nicaragua Are Fully Vaccinated Against Covid-19
The Ministry of Health reported that 15,328,476 doses of vaccines have been administered to the population over two years of age since the beginning of the COVID-19 National Voluntary Vaccination Program. 99.9% of the population has received at least one dose of the vaccine; 94.7% are fully vaccinated; and 45.4% have received two booster shots. (Nicaragua News, 8 June 2023)
Center to Boost Coffee Production Opens in Nueva Segovia
The Center for the Development of Agricultural Technologies named after General Ramón Raudales, General of the Army Defender of National Sovereignty, opened last week in Dipilto, Department of Nueva Segovia. This center will work with producers to help high-altitude coffee plantations increase crop productivity through research on varieties with higher yields, natural inputs for fertilization, production systems in association with forest and fruit trees, and methods for post-harvest and processing. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/abre-centro-para-incrementar-la-produccion-de-cafe-en-nueva-segovia/ (Radio La Primerisima, 11 June 2023)
Greater Access to Technical Training
The National Technological Institute (INATEC) reported that US$3 million has been invested to improve and expand the Masaya Departmental Technical Center, ensuring greater access for 6,415 students to free, quality technical training in six areas and three complementary courses. Funding for the project came from the General Budget. (Nicaragua News, 8 June 2023)
San Carlos Port Modernization Project Underway
US$700,000 will be invested by the Nicaraguan Port System in the remodeling of the San Carlos Port in the department of Río San Juan, according to Virgilio Silva, executive president of the institution. Silva emphasized that, as part of the work, a berthing area will be built for the boats that will mobilize tourists to San Juan de Nicaragua, El Castillo, and Solentiname from San Carlos. Silva mentioned that a two-story building, a restaurant, kiosks and administrative offices will also be built. He said that this work will complement the boardwalk modernization project of the San Carlos’ mayor’s office. (Radio La Primerisima, 12 June 2023)
June 8, 2023
Opportunity, Inclusion at the University in the Countryside
The programs offered by UNICAM (University in the Countryside) in three locations, Juigalpa, Estelí and Masaya, provide opportunity with inclusion for hundreds of people from rural areas. Currently 729 people, from more than 80 municipalities, are enrolled in the areas of Advanced Technician in Agroindustry, and in Irrigation, to prepare young people in their regions. The University in the Countryside program allows adolescents, young people, and adults from the most remote areas to continue their higher education, completely free, in coordination with the municipalities. It guarantees transportation, breakfast, lunch and snacks, digital and physical material, in addition to an economic bonus for academic excellence.
Jackson Ismael Pichardo Rojas, 28 years old, blind, originally from Santo Domingo, Chontales, is in the third year of the Advanced Technician in Agroindustry course. His disability has not been an impediment for him to aspire to a university degree. “It is a great opportunity for all the people who live in the countryside, I am very grateful for this. I acquired this disability at the age of 16 and this opportunity is a light in the midst of all my darkness, I have learned many things like how to give added value to a product, with various processes,” he said. Going to this university has been aided by his good friend Emiliano Zamora Torres, who has a motor disability and is also studying a career. “We have been friends for 10 years, we both support each other to learn our subject matter and when I finish, I want to work and be able to start my own company, to be my own boss,” said Zamora. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/inclusion-conviccion-y-oportunidades-en-la-universidad-en-el-campo/ (Radio La Primerisima, 1 June 2023)
Children’s Nutrition has Improved Dramatically since 2022
The Ministry of Health presented its report on the 2023 Nutritional Census, which studied the nutritional conditions of children ages of 0 to 14 in rural and urban areas. The report states that the study of “1,425,806 boys and girls surveyed in the census between January and May 2023 found that between 2022 and 2023, acute malnutrition of children between the ages of 0 to 6 years was reduced 9.3% compared to 2022 and chronic malnutrition fell 8.2%. Acute malnutrition between the ages of 6 and 14 fell 13% and chronic malnutrition was reduced by 4.3%.” MINSA Health Services Director General, Carlos Cruz stated that “We take note of the good results obtained during this twelve-month period; however, we must continue working towards the total eradication of malnutrition. With the data collected, programs like Zero Hunger, Family Gardens, School Lunches, Food Production Packages, and the Family Support Plan will be strengthened, enhancing the efforts to achieve these nutritional goals through adequate nutrition guidelines, vaccination and periodic weight and height monitoring of children.” (Nicaragua News, 6 June 2023)
National Assembly Creates the White Cross
On June 2 the National Assembly approved a law creating the White Cross, a humanitarian assistance institution attached to the Ministry of Health. In the explanatory memorandum, it says that in view of the needs of the population, it is important to have a decentralized institution for humanitarian assistance and relief that attends to the emergencies of individuals, families and communities. The Ministry of Health is the institution with the regulatory competencies and technical capacities to incorporate the White Cross as part of the model promoted by the government to guarantee the health of the population. The fundamental principles of The White Cross are universality, solidarity, comprehensiveness, social participation, efficiency, quality, equity, sustainability and responsibility of the citizens. Among its attributions is to respond to natural disasters and emergencies by providing relief and assistance. It can also serve to provide solidarity support and humanitarian assistance when requested by friendly governments. One of the articles of the law establishes that the patrimony of the White Cross will include the financial resources and property, registered or not, that have belonged to the Nicaraguan Red Cross. Likewise, it will have use of goods and resources acquired by contributions and donations made by public, private, national or foreign entities. (Radio La Primerisima, 2 June 2023)
Nicaragua’s Economy Evaluated as Positive
Fitch Ratings announced that the Long-Term Foreign Currency Issuer Default Rating for Nicaragua is reaffirmed at B- and the economic outlook of Nicaragua has been revised upward from stable to positive. The Fitch press release said “the revision of Nicaragua’s outlook to positive from stable reflects a broadly resilient economy based on a prudent policy mix that has strengthened fiscal and external buffers, better positioning the authorities to manage macroeconomic challenges related to international/geopolitical tensions; inflation that has been moderate at 9.5% since April 2023; reduction of the public debt and private consumption that fuels growth, supported by rising remittances, as well as greater access to credit from the private banking system.” (Nicaragua News, 6 June 2023)
Nicaragua’s International Loans Change from Libor to Sofr Rate
The financial agreements that Nicaragua has signed with the Central American Bank for Economic Integration, 44 in total, are in transition from Libor to Sofr. The Libor rate is determined by banks participating in the London market, and in 2008 about 16 international entities were involved in a major scandal, causing a worldwide scam of millions of users. On June 2, a decree was passed in the National Assembly that modifies the loans to the public sector. “The measure to migrate from this [discredited] rate (Libor), is correct and must be supported, we must always be on the lookout; because the banks do not rest in satisfying their voracious appetite, subjecting our Latin American, Caribbean and African people. Here it has been demonstrated that the main banks worldwide are a den of criminals, that is why our international loans are going to be regulated by the Sofr rate,” said Deputy Wálmaro Gutiérrez. The country’s move towards this measure protects it against future irregularities. Nicaragua joins the countries that have condemned those responsible for systematically causing great damage to humanity. “The transition process to replace the [Libor] interest rate is being implemented; it is based on the banks’ estimates of their borrowing costs,” said Gutiérrez. Nations are opting for mechanisms that are less vulnerable to manipulations. “A transparent and responsible government, which has complied with the reduction of poverty and extreme poverty, is carrying this out with all security and gallantry,” Gutiérrez concluded. (TN8TV, 2 June 2023)
New Medical Supply Storage Facility in Esteli
The Ministry of Health inaugurated the regional medical supply storage facility and epidemiological lab at the San Juan de Dios Hospital in Estelí on June 3. The new US$5.4 million project was financed by the General Budget with support from the Inter-American Development Bank. (Nicaragua News, 5 June 2023)
Adelante Program Loaning $US15 Million in 2023
The Adelante program expects to place US$15 million in loans this year and expand to US$100 million in 2026, reported Finance Minister Iván Acosta on the program En Vivo of Channel 4. He pointed out that this amount seems small compared to a bank, but it is the first time that a program is announced with a sustained interest rate of around 15% while in most microfinance companies the interest is around 36%. Acosta indicated that this means that the government is making an effort to finance sectors that were for a long time excluded from accessible credit. He said that this program has evolved well in its first seven months. It is fundamentally directed to the agricultural and livestock sector. He added that if US$200 million could be mobilized by 2026 to the rural sector, production would multiply, productivity and yield would be more visible and export stocks in this segment of the economy would increase. (Radio La Primerisima, 5 June 2023)
Nicaragua Reports on Damages Caused by US Aggression
Nicaraguan activists and government representatives participated on June 3 in a hearing of the International Peoples’ Tribunal on Nicaragua, with the presentation of nine testimonies of victims of aggression by the United States. Testimony covered US support for the dictator Anastasio Somoza, Ronald Reagan’s Contra War in the 1980s, and the 2018 attempted coup. The testimony of eight of the nine persons took place from the Foreign Ministry of Nicaragua in Managua while the testimony of Camilo Mejía was from the United States. Nicaraguan activist Mejía spoke about the efforts financed by the United States to foment the 2018 coup attempt, in which they also financed false news on social networks and written media that were at the service of the coup plotters and the US empire.
The International Peoples’ Tribunal on US Imperialism: Sanctions, Blockades and Economic Coercive Measures (its full name) is holding a series of hearings on the impact of US sanctions on 16 countries in Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
Finance Minister Ivan Acosta described the great damage that US imperialism has caused to the people of Nicaragua. Denunciation of United States policies and actions is one of many ways to defeat the illegal and unethical policy of sanctions and coercive economic measures implemented principally by the United States and the European Union, Acosta said. He urged the building an international consensus on the illegality of these unilateral, bilateral and multilateral measures, as well as the taking of urgent legal action against this violation of international law and human dignity. “We close by insisting that the best attitude of the world’s peoples is to condemn, as in fact we are requesting before this tribunal, to condemn firmly and without any appeal, imperialism and its cronies for the damage caused by the policies, sanctions and coercive economic measures that they have implemented, demanding a just reparation for the damage caused,” he said.
Those who gave their testimonies were: unionist Amada Pineda, Supreme Electoral Council President Brenda Rocha, Supreme Electoral Council Magistrate Alma Nubia Baltodano, Supreme Court President Alba Luz Ramos, lawyer Orlando Tardencilla, National Assembly Deputy Wilfredo Navarro, Minister of Finance Iván Acosta, Presidential Advisor for Health Affairs Dr. Sonia Castro, and activist Camilo Mejia. To watch the tribunal in English: https://youtu.be/SVWrF0L1RsA (Radio La Primerisima, 4 June, 2023)
Nearly 500,000 Healthy Gardens Established
From 2012 to date, the Ministry of Family, Community and Cooperative Economy (MEFCCA) has supported the establishment of 479,000 Healthy Gardens with an equal number of families, of which 19,000 have been established so far in 2023. The Healthy Gardens program was started in May 2012 and consists of the establishment of small productive areas of fruit trees, vegetables, aromatic herbs, medicinal plants, roots, tubers, Musaceae [bananas and plantains], trellis crops, among others, to contribute to the nutritional security of families. Families are trained and provided with plants to establish their gardens. The plants that are delivered are produced in MEFCCA nurseries or obtained through partnerships with municipal governments or producers interested in contributing to the program. As part of the expansion of the program, Healthy Gardens have been established in maternity wait homes, homes for the elderly, child development centers, schools, and currently in fire stations. In these cases, each institution provides the space to establish the garden and the staff to maintain it, MEFCCA delivers the plants and ensures training with the methodology of “learning by doing,” so that the staff of the institution is involved from the beginning to ensure the care of the productive area. (Radio La Primerisima, 3 June 2023)
Nicaragua to Acquire 500 Buses from China
The government of Nicaragua and the company Yutong signed an agreement that will allow the acquisition of 500 new buses from the People’s Republic of China to meet the needs of the people. Finance Minister Iván Acosta recalled that President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo, a little more than a week ago in a public appearance, made a commitment to continue equipping, improving and transforming the country’s public transport model. Acosta stated that this is part of the improvement of public transportation for all municipalities. (Radio La Primerisima, 5 June 2023)
Briefs, June 1, 2023
Government Built 2,000 Houses in the First Quarter of 2023
The government, through the Institute for Housing (INVUR), in the first quarter of 2023 built 2,000 houses out of the 9,000 projected for 2023, said Gabriela Lorena Palacios, co-director of INVUR. Currently there are 22 affordable housing projects. Families have access to a subsidy applicable to credit so that they can have access to a house. The government is executing projects through developers and other programs throughout the country, including in Managua, Ciudad Sandino, Granada, Mateare, León, Tipitapa, and Jinotepe. “In the rest of the municipalities the government provides a contribution that is channeled through INVUR, so families can build a house.” Nine thousand houses are planned for 2023 between the private sector, INVUR, and the municipalities. The co-director of INVUR said that another government program in 63 municipalities is in charge of the construction of housing for families in extreme poverty. (Radio La Primerisima, 24 May 2023)
New Buses for Transportation Sector
President Daniel Ortega announced that initiatives are being taken with Mexico, Brazil, China and Russia to acquire more buses and renew the entire fleet of urban and interurban transport. During the ceremony for the delivery of 150 buses sent by the Russian Federation, Ortega emphasized that transportation and housing are fundamental for families. He added that, in 2007, 50 buses arrived from Japan; in 2009, 380 Russian buses arrived; in 2012, 170 Russian buses and 350 Mexican Dina buses arrived; in 2021, 250 Russian KAVZ buses arrived and this year 350 new Russian buses are being incorporated for a total of 1,550 buses.
He pointed out that transportation is a fundamental complement to the continuing development of the culture, education and health of the people. “We must have more transportation available for school transportation… to transport people to health centers, for workers in the city and the countryside.” He recalled that, in the 90’s, the neoliberal governments wanted to take away the cooperatives from the transportation worker/owners, “but the transport workers stood up with the strength of El Danto [Comandante Germán Pomares who died in the early days of the 1979 Final Offensive of the Revolution] and fought so that they would not be robbed of their cooperatives. I do not forget those feats, those heroic battles that we fought together with the cooperatives, when we went to the streets to defend the right of the carriers to be owners of the cooperatives.”
“We know that there is still a shortage of transportation; we are not going to say that with this we have solved the problem, because it is not true. We have been making great strides, with the initiatives we are taking with Russia, with the People’s Republic of China, we will also be taking initiatives with Mexico and Brazil.” The President stressed that the government is purchasing the buses with credit. “In other words, we are not asking for a gift, we are not asking for alms. We are not a beggar people; we are a dignified people,” Ortega stressed. [The cooperatives own their buses; buses brought in by the government are sold to them under very favorable terms. The government also provides tires and parts under favorable terms – all this so that the cost of riding a bus can continue to be equivalent to about US$5 cents.] (Radio La Primerisima, 25 May 2023)
Nicaragua Recognized by OECD for Tax Revenue Collection
On May 23 the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) presented its “2023 Revenue Statistics in Latin America and the Caribbean” report which states that with 27.1% fiscal revenue of the gross domestic product in 2021, Nicaragua has the highest tax revenue collection as a percentage of GDP in the region, followed by Costa Rica (24.2%); El Salvador (23.3%); Honduras (21.2%); Dominican Republic (14.5%); Guatemala (14.2%); Panama (12.7%). (Nicaragua News, 24 May 2023)
Dignified Diversity Booklet Released
Residents of the municipalities of Chichigalpa and Posoltega participated in the presentation of the booklet: “Dignified Diversity, The Right to Choose and the Duty to Respect,” published by the National Commission for Harmonious Life. Chichigalpa Mayor Fanny Zambrana said, “We are proud of how diverse we are, because each one chooses their option…We are people who respect and love under the Christian principle of loving our fellow man.” Minister of the Family Johana Flores said that the person, the family and the community are the center of its activity and this is the most important space to promote love and respect, without discrimination. Participants learned that they have rights and also duties, in equal conditions, as Nicaraguan citizens. At the same time, they highlighted the importance of family values, such as love for each other, respect, solidarity and communication to live together in peace. Nahomi Canales, from the transgender community, emphasized that the fundamental value in the family is love. “It is important that fathers and mothers accept their children and respect them, she said. Juan Linarte said, “The booklet encourages us to continue developing love, peace and justice; it is framed in the respect we should have for our fellow men and women.” See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/divulgan-cartilla-diversidad-digna-en-occidente/ (Radio La Primerisima, 30 May 2023)
New Epidemiology Lab in Rivas
The Ministry of Health inaugurated the new epidemiology laboratory in Rivas benefiting 590,201 inhabitants of Rivas, Granada, and Carazo departments. The US$360,882 lab was financed by the General Budget and will increase capacity to diagnose diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika, leptospirosis, tuberculosis, COVID-19, influenza and HIV, as well as provide conservation of medical samples for investigation of highly infectious organisms capable of causing public health problems. (Nicaragua News, 24 May 2024)
Matagalpa to Open Technical Training Center
The government is inaugurating the Women’s Technical Training Center of El Cuá, in the Department of Matagalpa on May 29, announced Vice President Rosario Murillo. Murillo said that this center will attend to more than 2,000 young people in special courses, taught and certified by the National Technological Institute (INTA). Classrooms and research labs, along with training and technology development areas will be installed for students and producers: “everything to contribute to production and obtain better results for production with the energy of Matagalpan women,” she added. Work will be done on the production of seeds, composting vegetable matter for coffee crops, non-traditional crops, and courses for agrotourism. “We will be able to develop agrotourism programs around the high-altitude vegetation, birds, orchids, flowers, and the beautiful landscapes we have around there,” said Murillo. (Radio La Primerisima, 23 May 2023)
Nicaragua Advances in Animal Health
During the 90th General Session of the World Assembly of Delegates to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) held last week in Paris, WOAH Deputy Director-General of International Standards and Science Dr. Monserrat Arroyo highlighted the progress that Nicaragua has made in strengthening public veterinary services. “These substantial advances guarantee the sanitary status of Nicaragua as a country free of foot-and-mouth disease and only negligible risk for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE),” Dr. Arroyo said. Founded in 1924, the WOAH is an intergovernmental organization that develops international standards on health, animal welfare, and veterinary public health, promotes their integration into the national policies and programs of member states. (Nicaragua News, 23 May 2023)
New Women’s Police Stations in Las Minas and Bocana de Paiwás
Vice President Rosario Murillo reported that, on May 31, the second women’s police station will be inaugurated in Rosita, part of the Mining Triangle. And, on June 1, a women’s police station opens in Bocana de Paiwás. This brings the total to 221. Murillo said that the most important thing is the thousands of visits that have been made to women in their homes to ensure that they understand the concepts, the model, the practices of citizen security, security in the family, security in the face of disasters, and, above all, how to advance in the prevention of crimes against women. (Radio La Primerisima, 30 May 2023)
Carnaval de Mayo Ya Celebrated in Bluefields
Fourteen blocks of the main streets of the city of Bluefields, on the South Caribbean Coast, served as stages for the traditional Carnaval de Mayo Ya, which was enlivened by 18 groups that danced to the rhythm of drums. This year, the carnival was dedicated to Ricardo Carson, director of the Bluefields Municipal School of Dance, who was recognized for his contribution to the rescue of Caribbean culture and tradition. As every year, locals, Nicaraguan, and international tourists were present to see the colorful costumes, dances and expressions of culture. The Carnival went through the Punta Fría, Central, Beholden, and Pointeen neighborhoods, ending in the Central Park of Bluefields, where there was a contest to award the best troupes and live musical presentations. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/celebran-carnaval-de-mayo-ya-en-bluefields/ (Radio La Primerisima, 28 May 2023)
Over 1,000 Inmates Regain their Freedom
Twelve hundred inmates are leaving prison to make new lives for themselves and their families. About 1,000 inmates are freed every year for Mother’s Day and also before Christmas. A ceremony took place at the Tipitapa Penitentiary System where the head of the Ministry of the Interior, Amelia Coronel, stated that this is an opportunity that should not be wasted. “I want to take this opportunity to thank President Daniel Ortega and our Vice President Rosario Murillo for always being concerned about what is happening in the penitentiary system, like programs in favor of the entire prison population to achieve their reincorporation into society with the necessary tools to work and prosper,” said Coronel. She added, “I know you will have good days and bad days but don’t forget that this opportunity only comes once.” Paola Gaitán is one of the women who received this opportunity to change her life and move forward. She said, “I thank God and what I am going to do is to find a way to work. Here they taught me how to make piñatas, how to make bread, and with all that I am going to find a way to get ahead with my children.” See Photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/mas-de-mil-reos-recuperan-su-libertad/ (Radio La Primerisima, 28 May 2023)
Police Investigating Several Nicaraguan Dioceses
On May 27 the National Police reported that it had started investigations of several Catholic dioceses suspected of illegal activities. Police were informed on May 19 of illicit handling of funds, and use of bank accounts that had belonged to persons convicted of treason. Investigations discovered hundreds of thousands of dollars hidden in bags in buildings belonging to the dioceses.
The Police reported the findings to the pertinent authorities who started their own investigations. These investigations revealed that money had been illegally taken from bank accounts that had been ordered to be frozen, as well as other illicit acts. They appear to be part of a money laundering network in different dioceses.
The Attorney General’s Office, the Superintendence of Banks, and the Financial Analysis Unit have confirmed criminal movements with funds for the dioceses entering the country irregularly. Proceedings have been opened for all these apparent crimes.
The Superintendence of Banks has requested that the Bishops Conference of Nicaragua and the head of the Church in Nicaragua, Cardinal Leopoldo Brenes, present documents showing bank account movements. The authorities are trying to clarify and document everything pertinent to this anomalous situation which is contrary to Nicaraguan law. Investigations continue to achieve transparency in the operation and management of the finances of these institutions. (Radio La Primerisima, 27 May 2023)
Briefs, May 25, 2023
Nicaragua with Lowest Homicide Rate in the Region
Latin America and the Caribbean are home to less than 20% of the world’s population but account for 35% of homicides. Homicide Monitor found Nicaragua with the lowest homicide rate in the region with 7.3 per 100,000 inhabitants; next is Costa Rica with 11.4, Panamá – 12.8, El Salvador – 16.7, Guatemala – 16.6, Mexico – 25.8 and Honduras – 41.2. Homicide Monitor, https://homicide.igarape.org.br/
Managua Reduces Critical Flood Areas
In 2009 Managua had more than 130 critical flood areas, but thanks to the investment plan implemented by the government in different neighborhoods these have been reduced to 54, reported Managua Mayor Reyna Rueda as the country’s rainy season is about to start. “Every year through our investment plan we allocate important resources to projects such as channeling run-off water to canals to avoid flooding in neighborhoods. The current engineering works in the Waspán neighborhood consist of the construction of a 100-meter-long canal, with hydraulic concrete, six meters wide by 2.6 meters high; this is to reduce the vulnerability of more than 2,000 inhabitants of this sector. The works are being executed with an investment of US$2.7 million in its first stage. “The concern we have every year is to allocate resources to drainage projects to reduce the vulnerability of families in different areas of the capital,” said the mayor. (Radio la Primerisima, 22 May 2022)
President Ortega Highly Rated by the Population
On May 17 M&R Consultants polling firm presented the results of its recent regional survey “Panopticon of Public Opinion in the Americas” corresponding to the first quarter of 2023. The survey states that with a 75.4% job approval, President Daniel Ortega ranks second in the American Continent among the best evaluated Presidents, surpassed only by Nayib Bukele of El Salvador with 87.7% job approval. (Nicaragua News, 18 May 2023)
NICAVIDA Project Benefits 35,838 Families
The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) presented a report last week on the advances of the project for the Sustainable Development of Livelihoods of Rural Families along the Nicaragua Dry Corridor (NICAVIDA). CABEI President, Dante Mossi, stated, “We wish to highlight that 35,838 families in 37 municipalities along the dry corridor, 54% led by women, 3,800 of which are Indigenous women, have benefited from the NICAVIDA project through financial incentives, strengthening of productive capabilities, access to markets to establish agribusinesses and primary production initiatives adapted to climate change.” The US$48.4 million NICAVIDA project, financed by the General Budget with support from CABEI and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), is 97% completed and will benefit more than 100,000 people in seven departments along the dry corridor. (Nicaragua News, 19 May 2023)
Mobile Clinics Provide Health Care in Neighborhoods
Quality medical care is closer to families every day. For example, medical specialists provided consultations to the residents of the Francisco Meza neighborhood in District I of Managua. “We are in this health fair that is quite busy near the Eastern Market to provide different medical services with excellent attention to the population. We also provide medicines and we attend from 8am until 3pm,” said Dr. Eduardo Corea. During this very hot season the doctor provided a series of recommendations to avoid over heating incidents with people who have different types of chronic conditions. “During this very hot time there are people who can be affected by heat shock and we encourage them to stay hydrated, use fans, drink cold liquids. Those with hypertension should get their blood pressure measured regularly and not miss their medication,” he added. He also said that children are being affected since temperature changes cause allergies and sinusitis.
All of the medical attention is free of charge. The mobile clinics have transformed the lives of Nicaraguans. With this new initiative, people can get ultrasounds, dental care and their medical consultations. Resident Blanca Hernández said, “The clinics are very important. I no longer have to go to the health center because we get attention and medicines right here in the neighborhood. I feel very grateful to my government for all it does for us since these things are not seen in other countries and here everything is closer to our homes and without paying a córdoba.” In addition, health workers provide the Covid-19 vaccine and other vaccines to protect from diseases. (TN8TV, 22 May 2023)
Granada Hospital Rehabilitated and Expanded
The Ministry of Health last week inaugurated the rehabilitated and expanded Japan-Nicaragua Friendship Hospital in Granada. The US$513,889 project includes a new electrical system, internal medicine unit, operating room, and intensive care unit, benefiting 206,000 inhabitants in four municipalities. Financing for the project was provided by the General Budget. (Nicaragua News, 22 May 2023)
New Investment in Nicaragua’s Tabaco Sector
The Vandermarliere Family of Cigars (VFC) inaugurated the new Las Mesitas cigar processing center in Estelí creating 320 new jobs. Chief Executive Officer of the company Fred Vandermarliere said, “The new processing center, the second built in Nicaragua, represents a long-term investment and also a boost for the local community. These new manufacturing centers close the production circle from the seed to the cigar, guaranteeing that the entire cycle aims for the highest quality.” (Nicaragua News, 18 May 2023)
Nicaragua Meets with Green Climate Fund
Last week, in representation of Latin America and the Caribbean, Nicaragua participated in the Global Meeting of the Green Climate Fund of the United Nations Environment Program in Germany. During his speech, Presidential Secretary for Climate Javier Gutiérrez stated that “on behalf of the Latin American and Caribbean Region, Nicaragua proposes an increase in financing for developing countries in compliance with the principle of equity based on common but differentiated responsibilities and capacities. Likewise, we propose to comprehensively address climate change through national strategies and plans that promote adaptation and mitigation of the effects of greenhouse gas emissions, abnormal temperatures, deforestation, and natural phenomena.” Established in 2010, the Green Climate Fund is a financial mechanism of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change that seeks to help developing countries to implement policies, projects, and programs for adaptation to climate change and mitigate its effects. (Nicaragua News, 17 May 2023)
Thousands Receive Credit through ADELANTE
The Ministry of Family Economy published a report on advances of the Program to Finance Production, Entrepreneurship and Small Businesses (ADELANTE). The report states that US$8.31 million was loaned to 4,755 small producers and entrepreneurs between January and April 2023, to strengthen the quality and competitiveness of products and services they offer in rural and urban areas. The ADELANTE program is part of the Creative Economy Model being implemented by the government to promote integral economic development. (Nicaragua News, 22 May 2023)
Bilwi Celebrates May Carnival 2023
Cultural groups, dance troupes and rhythmic bands from the Northern Caribbean Coast participated May 20 in the Great Carnival of May 2023, which toured the streets of the city of Bilwi. The carnival started at the fairground and went all the way to the Carlos González sports complex, where performers from each municipality of the region had ten minutes to show their skills and abilities with music and choreography. “Thus, we celebrate the month of fertility and African heritage with great joy in peace and tranquility, strengthening the identity of the people who live in the Caribbean coast,” said regional government coordinator Carlos Alemán. Festivities continue May 21 with a food fair and more musical groups. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/bilwi-celebra-carnaval-de-mayo-ya-2023/ (Radio La Primerisima, 21 May 2023)
Briefs, May 18, 2023
Multimillion Dollar Investment in Water and Sanitation
In the Department of Managua, the government is investing US$185 million in the “Managua Ribera Sur” (Managua South Side) project of water and sanitation. It is financed by the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), Germany’s KFW development bank, and Japanese assistance, according to Ervin Barreda, executive president of the Nicaraguan Water Company (ENACAL). Two hundred thirty kilometers of new pipes will be installed in the capital city; in Tipitapa – 109 km of pipes, three pumping stations and one treatment plant; in Ciudad Sandino – 130 km of pipes, two pumping stations, one treatment plant and five UASB reactors (anaerobic digesters used in wastewater treatment). Some 223,400 families will benefit in Managua; 15,300 in Tipitapa and 32,890 in Ciudad Sandino.
ENACAL is carrying out other projects with help from Japan, the Inter-American Development Bank, the European Union, Spain and local government resources. “This year we could close with 97% coverage in drinking water at the urban level. ENACAL’s budget for this year is around US$117 million. In the first four months ENACAL has already executed 40% of the budget assigned for 2023 and is currently working simultaneously in 37 cities on drinking water and sanitation. Many of the sewage projects are in cities that had never had this before so rights [to a clean environment] are being restored to more than 167,000 families.” He also highlighted the Biogas Plant in Managua. “This is in a very advanced state of execution, we hope it will be ready in July and should generate one megawatt of energy with products from the plant itself,” he explained, adding, “This contributes in a very important way to strengthening the plant as a model worldwide.” (Radio La Primerisima, 10 May 2023)
Bluefields to Commemorate Solidarity Day with People Living with HIV
The Regional Commission for the Fight against AIDS (CORESIDA), held a working session to finalize the planning for the commemoration of the International Day of Solidarity with People Living with HIV, May 18. This commission plans to carry out activities that allow the population to learn about HIV, its prevention and ways of transmission and eliminate myths about people living with HIV thus reducing discrimination against this population. Among the main activities are: talks in educational centers, educational radio programs, information fairs, mural contests, among others. Nicaragua has advanced in terms of solidarity with people living with HIV and AIDS and now has a comprehensive legal framework to promote their protection and the defense of their human rights. Ten years ago, Law 820, which mandated a better performance by the Nicaraguan AIDS Commission (CONISIDA) for attention to the population carrying the virus, was passed. Law 820 addressed the issue of solidarity, which includes universal access to patient care. Similar activities are being carried out nationwide. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/bluefields-listo-para-conmemorar-dia-de-solidaridad-de-personas-que-conviven-con-vih/ (Radio La Primerisima, 11 May 2023)
Some 5,720 Benefit from Fishery Production Packages
The Executive President of the Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture (INPESCA), Edward Jackson, reported that “between December 2020 and April 2023, US$4.5 million in fishery production packages [including items that will help fishing productivity] was delivered to 5,720 artisanal fishermen and women to strengthen productivity on the Caribbean Coast.” The Fishery Production Packages Initiative seeks to increase the yield of artisanal fishing, strengthening food security and nutrition for communities and is part of the Zero Hunger Program that the government is implementing throughout the country. (Nicaragua News, 10 May 2023)
Interactive Map of Fisheries and Aquaculture Available
The interactive map of fisheries and aquaculture is a tool that provides families with information on production and exports of fishery and aquaculture resources, as well as fishing areas in both the Pacific Coast and the Caribbean Sea. It also has geo-referenced information on Tilapia farms and culture ponds by department, cooperatives dedicated to the cultivation of Pargo Lunarejo (Spotted Rose Snapper) in floating cages, the most representative laboratories, data on per capita consumption of seafood, employment generated, and sites where sport and recreational fishing tournaments are held annually. See photo: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/ya-esta-preparado-mapa-interactivo-de-la-pesca-y-acuicultura/ (Radio La Primerisima, 10 May 2023)
More than 20,000 Students in the Production Vocation Program
More than 24,000 students are enrolled in the Production Vocation Program nationwide. The students take classes in 231 schools around the country to strengthen their capacities to carry out productive activities typical of the countryside and develop rural businesses. There are 1,054 courses related to productive techniques and technologies for the development of basic grain crops, vegetables, cocoa, coffee, small and large livestock management, as well as the processing and transformation of different agricultural products. The courses are taught by 455 professors who teach practices in INATEC’s technical training centers and INTA’s Agricultural Technology Development Centers and Farms. This enrollment represents 85% of the goal for the first semester. See Photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/mas-de-20-mil-estudiantes-en-el-programa-vocacion-productiva/ (Radio La Primerisima, 14 May 2023)
Inmates Graduate as High-Level Technicians in Computer Science
Thirty-six inmates of the Bluefields Penitentiary System graduated on May 13 as high-level technicians in administrative information technology after studying the course on Saturdays for two years. The technical career was given with the support of the URACCAN University and the Ministry of the Interior so that these men and women can contribute to society once they complete their sentences. During the ceremony the three best students were honored: first place, Van Downs Hodgson; second place, Luis Miguel López Soza; and third place, Geordany Lanuza Rocha. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/reos-se-graduan-como-tecnico-superior-en-informatica-administrativa/ (Radio La Primerisima, 13 May 2023)
Major Investment in Digital Health and Telemedicine
The Ministry of Health has invested more than US$16.5 million in digital health and telemedicine, reported Vice President Rosario Murillo. “This allows us to schedule more than 120,000 medical appointments in 25 hospitals every month through telemedicine,” she said. “There are 100,000 emergencies attended per month in eight hospitals. There are six national hospitals with technology to receive and send images of patients for specialized medical consultations between the network of hospitals.” Every month 600 virtual sessions are held for the transmission of surgeries, training, congresses, symposiums, forums and work sessions in the 19 SILAIS (Local Health System for Integral Attention) districts. More than 20,000 consultations with specialists are also carried out annually through digital media. Murillo continued, “Over six million Nicaraguans have been vaccinated against Covid-19 and we have a digital registry. We have provided 312 health units in the 19 SILAIS districts of the country with computer equipment and broadband connection. When we came to power in 2007, only 34 health units had internet access, now there are 312.” Two thousand health workers have received tablets and 3,000 members of the community networks have received cell phones to facilitate emergency coordination and health surveillance actions in the community. Twenty-seven thousand health workers have been trained in the use of technological tools to speed up decision-making and improve the quality of care for families throughout the country. “This week mobile clinics are traveling to hold health fairs with 40,000 families from 348 neighborhoods providing all types of care,” Murillo said. (Radio La Primerisima, 11 May 2023)
Nicaragua Strategic Ally of CABEI
During the LXII Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), held this week in the Dominican Republic, CABEI issued a Press Release in which Nicaragua is highlighted as a strategic ally of the Bank in the region. “Nicaragua currently manages a portfolio of 24 projects and social programs aimed at sectors such as highway infrastructure, healthcare, electricity, housing, water and sanitation, and the environment, among others, that contribute to the reduction of poverty and inequality by improving the quality of life of more than 6 million Nicaraguans. Likewise, the Bank is supporting the private sector in the implementation of eight initiatives that provide financing and technical assistance to small, medium, and micro-businesses in the country, strengthening entrepreneurship and business innovation.”
At the meeting Bank President Dante Mossi said that CABEI seeks to increase its capital from US$7 billion to US$10 billion. He said that among CABEI’s portfolio of projects are the improvement of the technical and operative capacities of ports in Nicaragua, the emergency program for the integral and resilient reconstruction of infrastructure in Costa Rica, the Beach Corridor project in Panama, the widening and rehabilitation of the Philip Goldson Highway in Belize and the complementary works of the Montegrande dam in the Dominican Republic.
CABEI’s Board of Governors called for a competitive process to elect a new executive president. The decision was made in compliance with the Bank’s policies which establish a competitive process for the election of the Bank’s president, who will serve for the next five years beginning Dec. 1, 2023. The term of the current president ends on November 30. (Informe Pastran, Radio La Primerisima, 12 May 2023)
Gross International Reserves Increasing
The Central Bank released the April 2023 Monetary Report, which shows that the Gross International Reserves continue to increase. As of April 2023, the Gross International Reserves increased by US$61.7 million more than in March 2023, and reached US$4.915 billion. From December 2022 to April of this year, there was an accumulated increase of US$511 million. The monetary base increased by 13.8% in inter-annual terms. (Radio la Primerisima, 16 May 2022)
Initiative Presented to Ensure International Information Security
On May 15, Russia, Belarus, North Korea, Nicaragua and Syria introduced a measure at the 77th session of the UN General Assembly which proposed a UN convention to ensure international information security (ISI). The Russian Foreign Ministry reported in a press release that “the international discussion on ISI demonstrates the growing support among UN member states for the adoption of a universal legally binding instrument to ensure stability and security in the global information space.” The Russian Foreign Ministry’s note adds that “the initiative we have presented is a prototype of such an international treaty. The concept of the convention is based on the principles of sovereign equality of states and non-interference in their internal affairs. Its objectives are the prevention of and resolution of conflicts and the promotion of interstate cooperation, including capacity building in the field of information security for developing countries. Russia and the co-authors are open to further discussions on the document and consideration of possible proposals and comments. We urge partners to join this initiative for the sake of building a fair and global system of international information security,” the press release concludes. (Radio la Primerisima, 16 May 2023)
Briefs, May 11, 2023
Nicaragua Prioritizes Clean Energy
When the Sandinista National Liberation Front regained the presidency in 2007 they turned around the situation of thousands of people who lacked electricity service. The challenge was to greatly expand national energy coverage which reached only 54% of households in early 2007. For the Minister of Energy and Mines, Salvador Mansell, it was timely to consider electrification as a human right. “All social and economic development requires an initial advance in the energy sector because it is the platform that allows the installation of various infrastructures, such as water pumping, hospitals and industries,” he said. Nicaragua began expanding electricity coverage prioritizing the use of renewable sources to become one of the few countries in the region that in the last 16 years changed the energy matrix. “We wanted to support our plan with studies of the Matagalpa River basin for hydroelectric projects. Geothermal energy, which is the most expensive, was also studied and wind studies were carried out to see the wind potential,” he stated. Wind energy was installed by the government, for the first time in the country’s history, as in the 1980’s when geothermal energy was first launched. From 2008 to 2009 the first wind generation plants were installed in the department of Rivas. Now Nicaragua has renewable sources that include solar, hydroelectric, geothermal and biomass. In 2006 the use of clean energy was around 26%, but in 2021 it reached more than 70%. In the first quarter of 2023 it has reached almost 80%.
Electricity coverage increased beginning in 2007 and currently the country registers 99.29% coverage and the government expects to close 2023 with 99.4% electrification of homes nationwide. Mansell recalled that in 2006 there were average blackouts of 14 hours a day due to lack of electricity generation, since the installed capacity was not enough to meet the country’s demand. This also affected people’s water supply since electricity is needed to pump water. “For this first semester US$46 million is earmarked for new electrification and rehabilitation of existing networks, while for the second semester, we have US$54 million,” he said. “The transmission networks [in 2006] were only 1,600 kilometers, today we have about 30,000 kilometers for the supply of energy.” The Sandinista government’s commitment to the nation’s development and its determination to eliminate poverty has made it possible for more than three million people to get electricity service since 2007. (Radio La Primerisima, 8 May 2023)
Successful Campaign Administers 2,300,000 Vaccines
During the National Vaccination Campaign for the prevention of multiple diseases that concluded April 30, medical brigades, mobile clinics, and the 19 Local Health Systems administered some 2,300,000 vaccines, registering 107.2% overcompliance of the projected goal. Health Minister, Martha Reyes explained that “between April 11th and the 30th, 2,291,284 doses of vaccines for prevention of multiple diseases were administered to two-month-old infants all the way to senior citizens, as well as 1,340,556 doses of Mebendazole for parasites and 721,131 doses of vitamins A to children between one and six years old.” (Nicaragua News, 3 May 2023)
San Juan del Sur Sewage System Expansion Completed
ENACAL did the final testing of the expansion and improvement of the sanitation system of San Juan del Sur. The Nicaraguan Water and Sewage Company installed 12 kilometers of pipelines, household connections, electromechanical works, three pumping stations and 289 manholes, improving the service to 18,000 families. US$2.6 million was invested by the government and the Inter-American Development Bank. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/finaliza-ampliacion-del-sistema-de-saneamiento-de-san-juan-del-sur/ (Radio La Primerisima, 8 May 2023)
26 Million Trees to Be Planted in Reforestation Campaign
The planting of 26 million forest and fruit trees in green areas, parks, protected areas, forests, schools and producers’ farms will be carried out from May to December during the second stage of the “Green, I love you Green” National Reforestation Campaign. Currently there are some 3,500 community nurseries established in which families work growing plants within the framework of the campaign. The campaign began this month and will be developed with the participation of organized communities in all municipalities. Government institutions, the Guardabarranco Environmental Movement, organized communities and universities will also visit 95,000 families to promote and strengthen environmental education and will train 50,000 producers in the installation of forest and fruit tree production systems in association with different crops and animals. The launch will take place May 10, in homage to the General of Free Men and Women, Augusto C. Sandino, whose birthday is May 18. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/proyectan-sembrar-26-millones-de-plantas-con-campana-de-reforestacion/ (Radio La Primerisima, 6 May 2023)
China Donates Wheat and Urea
The Peoples Republic of China donated 1,332 metric tons of wheat and 2,250 tons of urea to Nicaragua last week. The Chinese Ambassador in Managua Chen Xi stated that “the donation seeks to strengthen agricultural production, complement the food supply chain, and support social initiatives such as Zero Hunger, Home Vegetable Gardens, School Lunches, Food Production Bonuses, and the Family Support Plan that the Government is implementing to guarantee food security among the most vulnerable sectors of the population.” (Nicaragua News, 5 May 2023)
Advances of the Healthy Schools Plan
The Ministry of Health reported on advances of the “National Healthy Schools Plan” that the government is implementing in schools throughout the country. Between January 23 and May 04 this year, 144,888 tests to detect speech impediments were administered; 211,334 hearing acuity tests were carried out; 271,898 visual acuity measurements were taken, and 7,825 dental care appointments were conducted. Likewise, 53,120 doses of vaccines against COVID-19 were applied and 210,050 personal hygiene workshops were organized. The National Healthy School Plan being carried out during the 2023 academic year seeks to strengthen the health of 1.8 million students, guaranteeing the integral development of the children. (Nicaragua News, 8 May 2023)
More than 52,000 Women Will be Assisted with Health Fairs
The Ministry of Health will hold 21 mega health fairs to provide attention to 52,500 women from all over the country. Women with high-risk pregnancies will be seen and breast and cervical cancer detection will be carried out. Medical attention will also be offered to knee, hip, foot, spine, shoulder and neck problems, tumors, numbness, frequent headaches, among others. Natural medicine services and complementary therapies will also be available. (Radio La Primerisima, 9 May 2023)
Women’s Police Station Opens in a Morrito Community
In the community of Jesús María, in the municipality of Morrito, department of Río San Juan, a Women’s Police Station was inaugurated on May 9 to attend cases of violence in the area. Commissioner General Johana Plata, head of women’s police stations nationwide, said that this new space will provide quality care and timely follow-up to complaints. She specified that this is the 216th women’s police station in the country, and will provide assistance to some 3,000 women citizens of this municipality. (Radio La Primerisima, 9 May 2023)
Nicaragua: Second Most Open in Trade Growth in the Region
The Mexican Agency “Latinometrics” that specializes in data analysis and insights about Latin American startups, markets, and trends, published a ranking of the countries in Latin America with the most growth in trade openness based on statistics from the World Bank. The report states that with a growth of 160% in trade openness as of 2021, Nicaragua is second in market openness in the region, surpassed only by Mexico with 300% growth. (Nicaragua News, 3 May 2023)
Exports on the Rise in 2023
Exports maintained a positive trend as of April of this year, registering growth in value (5.3%), volume (4.4%) and price (0.9%) with respect to the same period in 2022. According to a report from the Export Processing Center (CETREX), shipments of merchandise from January 1 to April 30 reached a value of US$1.485 billion with year-on-year growth of US$75.36 million. In 2022, during this same period, US$1.41 billion was exported. The 20 main exports make up 86.28% of the total. Raw gold, coffee, beef, and sugar cane account for 66% of that. Other leading products are peanuts, morolique cheese, beverages, alcoholic liquids, vinegar, fish, mozzarella cheese, lobster, processed cigars, tobacco, marine shrimp and processed coffee. The exported products went to 99 countries. Gold, coffee, beef, sugar, moralique cheese, beans, and lobster, among others, were exported to the US for a value of US$660.08 million. Bovine meat, peanuts, edible offal and viscera were exported to Mexico for US$60.46 million; Products with a value of US$50.68 million dollars were exported to Canada; US$150.25 million to El Salvador; US$79.76 to Costa Rica; US$40.45 million to Guatemala and US$33.45 million to Honduras, among other nations. Exports also went to Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden and Romania. Exports to the People’s Republic of China, Japan and South Korea are also registered. (Radio la Primerisima, 10 May 2023)
Unemployment Down
The Institute for Information on Development Information published its Monthly Employment Survey Report corresponding to March 2023. The report states that the unemployment rate was 3.2%, a 0.6% reduction compared with March 2022. The underemployment rate was 36.6%, 3.3% less than March of last year. (Nicaragua News, 8 May 2023)
National Assembly Approves the Creation of a New Nicaraguan Red Cross
The National Assembly on May 10 unanimously repealed Decree 357, by which the Nicaraguan Red Cross Association was created in 1958. At the same time the Assembly approved as its legal successor a new Nicaraguan Red Cross that will operate as an entity attached to the Ministry of Health. According to the explanatory memorandum presented by the legislators, the Red Cross Association, as a non-profit organization, transgressed the laws of the country, as it acted against its regulatory framework of impartiality and neutrality in the events of 2018 that resulted in a failed coup d’état. “The Nicaraguan Red Cross Association is governed by the fundamental principles of the international Red Cross and Red Crescent movement, among which are included: humanity, impartiality, and neutrality. In the acts that took place in 2018 that worked against the peace and stability of the nation, some affiliates of this association acted against these principles and its constitutive act and statutes, and the association itself transgressed the laws of the country by disregarding and even supporting this action of its affiliates,” says the explanatory memorandum. It is also noted that the Red Cross failed to comply with its duties and obligations as a non-profit organization by not submitting financial statements, by a lack of verification of the identity of its donors and by failing to update information in the registry of the Ministry of the Interior.
The explanatory memorandum emphasizes that, since 2007, the Ministry of Health has the competencies and regulations, technical and institutional capacities to take charge of a new Nicaraguan Red Cross. It goes on to say that “the Nicaraguan Red Cross [will be] a decentralized entity attached to the Ministry of Health, which will continue to comply with the international legal framework based on the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and its Additional Protocols to which Nicaragua is a state party, as well as the fundamental principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement approved at the Vienna Conference of 1965.” The new law states that all the assets of the Nicaraguan Red Cross National Association will become property of the state and will be administered by the Nicaraguan Red Cross. (19Digital, 10 May 2023)
Briefs, May 4, 2023
PAHO: Nicaragua and St. Kitts & Nevis Have Highest Vaccination Coverage
During the official launch of the Pan American Health Organization “Vaccination Week in the Americas” on April 24 in Chile, PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa stated that the initiative is taking place as the risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable disease is at a 30-year high, with one in five children under the age of one not fully protected against multiple vaccine-preventable diseases. “We note with concern that immunization programs in Latin America and the Caribbean have failed to maintain routine coverage … due to inadequate funding and misinformation. On the other hand, the efforts of Nicaragua and [the two-island country of] Saint Kitts and Nevis that have the highest levels of vaccination coverage in the region must be recognized.” (Nicaragua News, 26 April 2023)
CABEI and Nicaragua Expand Water and Sanitation in 7 Cities
The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) presented a report last week on advances in the Project to Expand Potable Water and Sanitation Systems in seven cities benefitting 265,000 people with safe and continuous access to potable water. CABEI President Dante Mossi stated that “CABEI supports Nicaragua in its work towards fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goal Six, which establishes guaranteeing availability and sustainable management of potable water. It is very satisfying to see how these projects completely change people’s lives, especially in those cities that for the first time have access to these services.” (Nicaragua News, 26 April 2023)
Nicaragua at Forefront of Fetal Surgeries
In 2021 Nicaragua made history in maternal-fetal medicine, becoming the first country in Central America to perform fetal surgeries at the Bertha Calderón Hospital. The director, Dr. Carmen Marina Cruz, said that this project was born out of the need to provide care to patients who were diagnosed with some type of fetal anomalies. Cruz said that the first surgery performed marked a milestone in the history of perinatal medicine and a new era in this type of surgical intervention in Nicaragua. She added, “The first intrauterine fetal surgery was performed in March 2021, since then we have performed 168 intrauterine fetal procedures and performed 94 surgeries on the newborn immediately after birth.” Nicaragua is the only country that follows up the pregnancy with corrective surgery immediately after the baby is born, within two to four hours maximum. (Radio La Primerisima, 2 Mayo 2023)
Increase in Social Security Affiliates
On April 27 the Central Bank published the “State of the Economy and Economic Outlook Report” corresponding to the period between January and March 2023. The report states that the Social Security Institute (INSS) incorporated 16,337 new affiliates in the first quarter, 0.7% higher than the same quarter in 2022, reaching a total of 799,721 affiliates. The economic activities with the highest increase in INSS affiliations were community, social and personal services (5,500); agriculture, forestry, hunting, and fishing (3,800), and commerce (3,300). (Nicaragua News, 28 April 2023)
President to Deliver 150 Russian Buses to Cooperatives
Over the coming days President Daniel Ortega will be delivering 150 new buses from Russia to different cooperatives around the nation. Vice President Rosario Murillo said that the arrival of the buses is good news, adding, “Today 150 bus units are driving through Chinandega and Leon to arrive in Managua to be delivered by our President in the coming days.” Murrillo also announced the inauguration of the second section of the Rosita-Bonanza highway, in the North Caribbean. It is a 30-kilometer hydraulic concrete road which provides a safe, stable, fast and comfortable connection between the development towns of the Mining Triangle and the Pacific. “More than 70,000 brothers and sisters celebrate this new work of progress,” she said. (Radio La Primerisima, 27 April 2023)
Caribbean Coast Celebrates Rain, Fertility and Heritage
With a colorful carnival and the rhythm of the May pole, the Palo de Mayo celebration began this May 1st, welcoming the month of fertility and African heritage in Bilwi. The troupes and rhythmic bands toured the main streets of the city of Bilwi, ending at the Plaza de Ferias, where a cultural event was held. The Palo de Mayo is a traditional celebration of the Afro-descendants to welcome the first rains of the season that bring fertility for the crops. The celebration on May 1 includes a presentation of a tree decorated with fruits and colorful ribbons while dances are performed around it celebrating the rainy season and new life. But it isn’t until the end of the month that the traditional, massive parade with floats from the city’s neighborhoods takes place. The Palo de Mayo in Bilwi is a custom that dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. It is an adaptation of the English custom of a celebration on the first day of May with additions from African traditions. This month sees special music, dances and food, and the melodies that are enjoyed coming from the drums of each cultural group. The cultural encounter in Bilwi is a sample of the permanence of the customs that the Caribbean people still preserve. See photos: https://www.tn8.tv/departamentos/llego-mayo-mes-de-la-fertilidad-y-la-herencia-africana-en-la-costa-caribe-nicaraguense/ (TN8TV, 1 May 2023)
El Bijague Health Post Expanded and Remodeled
The Ministry of Health has completed the expansion and remodeling of the health post in the village of El Bijagüe, in the Municipality of San Francisco Libre, which will be inaugurated on April 28. Conditions have been greatly improved to serve 300 families in this comarca (a group of 3 to 5 villages) The center has two consulting rooms, a vaccination area, a nebulization area, waiting room and bathroom. The investment amounts to about US$38,000. [Editor’s note: I worked in this municipality for many years and these are very remote villages. Previous health posts there or in other areas were generally just one small room where once in a while a doctor or nurse would attend patients – I’m describing pre-2007. So I find this little news item astounding!] See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/amplian-puesto-de-salud-en-el-bijague-en-san-francisco-libre/ (Radio La Primerisima, 27 April 2023)
Youth Remember Comandante Tomás Borge
On April 30, members of the Sandinista Youth came to the Mausoleum of the Commanders, in the Plaza of the Revolution, to pay tribute to Comandante Tomás Borge Martínez on the 11th anniversary of his death. “Comandante Tomás, this morning the Nicaraguan youth are here to be present a tribute with humility and respect for a Nicaraguan who was known for his immense love for Nicaragua,” said Aldo Almanza, of the Sandinista Youth. The young people carried flowers which they placed in the mausoleum dedicated to the Sandinista leader. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/juventud-recuerde-al-comandante-tomas-borge/ (Radio La Primerisima, 30 April 2023)
Music Group in International Festival of Anti-Fascist Music in Moscow
On April 30 the Nicaraguan music group “Liberarte,” arrived in Moscow, Russia, and was welcomed to participate in the International Festival of Anti-Fascist Music. From May 1 to 6 “Liberarte” will be present at the event held in the city of Samara, with other groups from Latin America, Europe and Africa. The festival will conclude on May 9, the historic date celebrating the 78th anniversary of the Victory against Fascism. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/grupo-liberarte-participara-en-festival-internacional-de-musica-antifascista/ (Radio La Primerisima), 30 April 2023
Nicaragua Participates in Brazil Meeting to Grow Friendship in America
Members of the Committees of Friendship and Unity with the Nicaraguan people, held a meeting in Brazil to grow American friendship from their historical ties of struggles for the common good. Gadiel Arce Zepeda, Ambassador of Nicaragua in Brazil, met with leaders of social organizations, workers, leaders of youth movements, labor, cultural, communicators, who work for justice, development, equity and the right of the people to live in peace, security and tranquility. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/nicaragua-participa-en-reunion-para-crecer-hermandad-en-nuestro-americana/ (Radio La Primerisima, 30 April 2023)
Ordinance Regulating Noise to Be Enforced
The Managua Mayor’s Office will enforce the law and begin to fine bar owners and individuals who play loud music at unauthorized hours, according to Article 11 of Ordinance No. 01-2013. The fines will be applied to natural and legal persons for noise pollution, including “those who, using sound equipment, loudspeakers, amplifiers, jukeboxes, among others, produce noise pollution with levels outside the established standards of the World Health Organization and disturb the tranquility and rest of citizens. Violators will be charged a fine of C$2,000 (US$55) for individuals and C$35,000 (US$972) for a business. The Mayor’s Office asks the population to make complaints of this type through the Facebook page “Yo Quiero Vivir Bonito,” or through the WhatsApp number 8525-5188. (Radio La Primerisima, 27 April, 2023)
Visit Nicaragua
“Eight Things that Shocked me About Visiting Nicaragua for the First Time” is a new article by Marci Rivera on the web page Travel Off Path. The author says she was “so glad I didn’t listen to the misguided warnings” about travel to Nicaragua and talks about how safe the country is and about the spectacular scenery, inexpensive lodging and food, ease of transportation, the poems of Rubén Darío, and other positives from her visit to the country. One thing she did not study up on was Nicaragua’s health care system as she says the country has “limited healthcare availability” which any reader of NicaNotes knows is not true. But, all in all, a good article with great photographs!
https://www.traveloffpath.com/8-things-that-shocked-me-about-visiting-nicaragua-for-the-first-time/
Briefs, April 27, 2023
Nicaragua Builds 127,000 Affordable Homes
The Nicaragua Institute for Urban and Rural Housing (INVUR) presented a report on the “Casas para El Pueblo” Affordable Housing Program being implemented nationwide. The report states that 127,000 low-cost homes were built between 2007 and 2022, benefiting 633,680 people and contributing to a reduction in the housing deficit. INVUR Co-Director Gabriela Palacios stated that “over the next two years, INVUR plans to build 30,000 low-cost homes and provide 4,000 housing subsidies financed through the General Budget with support from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration, the World Bank and the People’s Republic of China, favoring an at-risk population.” (Nicaragua News, 24 April 2023)
Millions for School Infrastructure Nationwide
This week 14 school infrastructure projects will be inaugurated with a cost of more than US$1.1 million. The schools are located in the departments of Matagalpa, Río San Juan, León, Managua, Jinotega, Estelí, Rivas, Chinandega and Boaco. Also, four other school infrastructure projects are starting in the municipalities of Santa Teresa in Carazo, Ciudad Antigua in Nueva Segovia, and Mulukukú on the North Caribbean Coast. (Radio La Primerisima, 24 April 2023)
U.S. Sanctions Do Not Provoke Fear
During a meeting with the Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, Sergey Lavrov, President Daniel Ortega denounced the United States for sanctioning three Nicaraguan judges “because they have applied justice against terrorists. We already have hundreds of sanctioned officials; this no longer causes any fear to the comrades who are sanctioned.” Ortega continued, “We are happy and very honored that you are here in Nicaragua precisely today when we are commemorating Peace Day. It is a day in which we give another defeat to imperialist aggression.” (Radio La Primerisima, 19 April 2023)
65,000 Benefit from the Rosita to Bonanza Highway
On April 27, the second section of the Rosita to Bonanza highway in the Autonomous Region of the North Caribbean Coast will be inaugurated. This new 30-kilometer road of hydraulic concrete will allow a safe, stable, fast and comfortable connection between the development poles of the Mining Triangle with the Pacific. It will be an important artery of development, peace and prosperity for the families of the Mining Triangle and all of Nicaragua, benefiting 65,681 inhabitants of this part of the North Caribbean. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/mas-de-65-mil-pobladores-beneficiados-con-la-carretera-rosita-a-bonanza/ (Radio La Primerisima, 24 April 2023)
Center for the Development of Agricultural Technologies Inaugurated
The “Blanca Segovia Sandino” Center for the Development of Agricultural Technologies was inaugurated on April 22 in San Rafael del Norte, department of Jinotega, by officials of the Nicaraguan Institute of Agricultural Technologies (INTA). This center will work on coffee, fruit and vegetable crops, doing research to develop new varieties and technologies that increase production, reduce costs and improve quality. Biological inputs for fertilization, pest and disease control will be investigated for the different crops that farmers plant in Jinotega. The Center will investigate alternatives for the feeding and nutrition of pigs, sheep and goats. Training will be developed with producer families to improve crop management on their farms. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/inauguran-centro-de-desarrollo-de-tecnologias-agropecuarias-blanca-segovia-sandino/ (Radio La Primerisima, 23 April 2023)
Mammogram Machines for Eight Hospitals
In support of the “Healthy Women” National Campaign”, the Ministry of Health delivered mammography devices to eight hospitals to strengthen the timely diagnosis of breast cancer. (Nicaragua News, 21 April 2023)
Microfinance Institutions Provided Nearly Half a Million in Loans in 2022
On April 20 the executive president of the National Microfinance Commission (CONAMI), Jim Madriz, presented the 2022 Report to the National Assembly. The Report states that, as of December 31, 2022, the total assets of the 53 microfinance intermediary institutions of the country were US$443 million, 5.62% higher than in 2021. Total equity of the financial institutions amounted to US$126.19 million, 30.92% over the previous year. In 2022 microfinance institutions registered 488,480 active loans, women benefitted in 54.27% of the loans. “The activity of microfinance institutions registered growth and stability in 2022, even in the face of the economic effects that the country has been burdened with since the failed coup attempt, the Covid-19 pandemic, and three hurricanes,” Madriz said. (Nicaragua News, 21 April 2022)
Russia and Nicaragua Deepen Relations
The Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, Sergei Lavrov, visited Nicaragua on April 19 and said that together with Nicaragua they will continue to work hand in hand against interference and intervention. “I would like to congratulate all my Nicaraguan friends and all the people of Nicaragua on the celebration of the Day of Peace. Thanks to the efforts of Daniel Ortega, the country remains stable,” he said. “I would like to wish all Nicaraguans peace, prosperity and stability, I am convinced that the bilateral relations between Russia and Nicaragua will facilitate this process.” “We agreed to hold a discussion during the St. Petersburg International Forum to be held in June this year,” he said.
Lavrov went on to say, “We carry out cooperation in the fields of health and vaccine production, which is quite well developed here in Nicaragua.” The diplomat referred to the establishment of important agreements in areas such as education, transportation, agriculture and health. “We have good cooperation in the fields of education and humanitarian exchanges and there are many Nicaraguan students studying at Russian universities. We carry out our cooperation in the sphere of fertilizers, food production and transportation,” he said.
Lavrov said, “We highly value the support of Nicaragua in our promotion of relations with integration organizations in Latin America, especially CELAC and SICA. All this helps to create in Latin America a powerful center and a pillar in the new world that is being formed. Multipolarity is a process that cannot be stopped, but Westerners under the auspices of the United States try to spread their hegemony in conflicts such as in Ukraine and to increase their influence in the region looking towards the Pacific, among others,” he said. See Photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/nicaragua-y-rusia-juntos-contra-injerencia-y-la-intervencion/ (Radio La Primerisima, 19 April 2023)
Trade Agreement between Nicaragua and China Begins
The Nicaraguan Ministry of Commerce and China’s Customs & Tariff Commission, issued a joint statement on April 24 to announce that “within the framework of the ‘Early Harvest Agreement,’ as of May 1, 2023, Nicaragua will be able to export seafood, beef, and textiles to China free of tariffs.” It added that “reciprocally, the People’s Republic of China will be exporting to Nicaragua, free of tariffs, insecticides, herbicides, plastics and raw materials for the production of textiles and toys.” Deputy Director of the Latin American Research Center of Beijing University Dong Jingsheng stated that “the Early Harvest Agreement signed in 2022, is a substantial advance in trade relations between the two countries, which already reflects an increase of 43.7% since diplomatic relations were restored. Our economies are highly complementary. Nicaragua has agricultural and aquatic resources of interest to the Chinese market and China has the capacity to supply Nicaragua with manufactured products to satisfy daily consumption needs, so it is a mutually beneficial relationship.” (Nicaragua News, 25 April 2023)
Regional Military Heads Reaffirm Commitment to Integration and Cooperation
The heads of legal counsel of the Armies that make up the Confederation of Central American Armed Forces (CFAC) committed their countries to continue working to ensure peace, security and tranquility in the region. On April 25, 2023, the Nicaraguan Army coordinated the “XIII CFAC Specialized Legal Advisory Activity in Managua.” During the meeting the heads and specialists of Legal Counsel of the Member Armed Forces (FAM) of Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Dominican Republic addressed a wide range of topics of common interest and analyzed issues related to accompaniment of the legal advisors in the planning and execution of operations to confront common threats. They exchanged experiences and lessons learned on mechanisms to combat internal threats and the study of high-tech crimes and combatting them within the framework of the national legislations of each member country. (Radio La Primerisima, 25 April 2023)
Excerpts from President Ortega’s Speech on the Day of Peace
Today, April 19, 2023 is the fifth anniversary of a new great historical victory for Nicaragua in the struggle for peace. And this date coincides with the first battle fought by our ancestors … which gives us strength, gives us dignity, gives us a fighting spirit. On April 17, 1523, that is 500 years ago, the first defense of these lands took place, when the invaders led by Gil González were defeated by Cacique Diriangén… 500 years ago! There is the report sent by Gil Gonzalez to the King, informing him that thousands were against him…. Thousands of Indigenous people were defending these lands, which were being invaded with the force of the sword and with the sacrilegious manipulation of the Cross; using Christ, who is the greatest symbol of peace that humanity can have, to murder those who were the owners of these lands, those who had their own identity, their own culture. And of course, we inherited those roots, and that is why Nicaraguans are a people who have always fought for peace against those who come to attack our homeland, our sovereignty, or to intervene in our lands.
On this day we are paying tribute to the Chiefs Diriangén, Nicarao and all those who gave their lives defending their lands against the European invaders who came with weapons. They had weapons that were unknown here while our ancestors fought with arrows, with spears. And with those weapons they produced the first defeat for the imperialists. And the criminal priests of those times came with the cross. Imagine, manipulating Christ. When was Christ going to accept being used to commit crimes like that?
In the same way it has been done throughout history in many parts of the world, it was done here in Nicaragua five years ago when the coup d’état was attempted against the Nicaraguan people. Against a people who were at peace, who had been growing their economy. A people who had achieved reconciliation among all the economic and social groups, businessmen, workers, peasants, artisans, bankers. We had all reached a great agreement, and the country was growing. It had been recovering from 17 years of neoliberal destruction. The economy was growing; employment was growing; security was growing and multiplying; education, housing, everything was growing. But the descendants of Cain conspired against their brothers, in the service of whom? In the service of the emperors, of the empires, Yankee, European, and also of church leaders. …. We were all witnesses to how some churches were converted into barracks from which armed groups went out to attack the population and police units every day, when the police had received the order not to respond to those attacks.
Some priests, profaning Christ, without any respect for God, told the criminals to trap, tie up, paint, beat or bleed young Nicaraguans, or a policeman or a woman. They then sprinkled fuel on men’s bodies and set them fire, and they themselves filmed the crimes.
I remember that at that time I told you, Nicaraguan brothers and sisters, that I asked God to give me patience, and meanwhile I tried to persuade them in the famous dialogues, so that they would suspend the death roadblocks. And there, many of the bishops who were participating, encouraging the terrorists… bishops of the devil! They cannot be bishops of Christ; they cannot walk with that cross on their chest. …. They profane the Blessed Sacrament when they raise it in their blood-stained hands.
And this has nothing to do with Christianity, nor with Christ, nor with Catholicism. No government in history has promoted and supported religious festivities [as we have]. What other government has promoted religious festivities like La Purísima, and the Christmas festivities? The only government that has done so has been ours, in two major stages: the first stage in 1979 until 1990, and the second stage, from 2007 until terrorism exploded. Until that moment we trusted that, regardless of the fact that there were priests, religious people who were provoking violence, trying to promote violence on the part of the people. But, meanwhile, the people did not fall for that game, until April 19, five years ago, violence began to settle on the Homeland and, with the violence, the peace we had in Nicaragua was being buried. Some joined the violence, because the Yankee government threatened them that if they did not join, if they did not send their workers to the streets, if they did not provoke strikes, then they would lose their wealth [in the US]; they would lose the money they had in the US banks.
I want to remind all Nicaraguans to think for a moment what Nicaragua was like five years ago [during the attempted coup]. Could you walk on these streets; could you live in peace in your homes? Everyone was terrified. And the deaths every day; those who were killed were blamed on the government, on the police, and the police were in their barracks, which was the decision we had taken.
Today, Peace Day, Nicaraguan brothers and sisters, we have had the opportunity to receive the Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, Sergey Lavrov. He was accompanied by Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov who deals specifically with relations with Nicaragua, Russian Ambassador to Nicaragua Alexander Khokholikov ….
We have talked first of all, logically, about peace since today is Peace Day, and the Russian Federation is fighting a battle for peace. …. This culminated in the [US-backed] Coup d’état [in 2014]; and meanwhile, NATO was harassing Russia, surrounding it with more weapons, more bases, and the US was directing the orchestra of international terrorists.
It has been a hard, difficult, painful situation. We are pained by the death of any human being. We are pained by the death of the young Russians and the young Ukrainians who are falling in combat. And we want peace, as Russia wants it, as the peoples of the world want it, as countries such as Brazil – Lula has raised it, Mexico has raised it, Xi Jinping, the President of the People’s Republic of China, has raised it.
How to achieve a state of opinion among the nations of the planet, which would allow guarantees and security to be given to the Russian people, who live in their lands because those lands are theirs? Ukraine belongs to those Russian-Ukrainians; it is also theirs. They were born there; they grew up there; they lived there during the Second World War, when the Nazis murdered thousands of Russians there.
So that an understanding can be reached to put an end to that war, logically there must be guarantees for the Russian people. It should also have, as a result, peace reestablished with the corresponding guarantees of what belongs to the Russian Federation in terms of territory. Elections can be held, and it is the people and not a coup d’état like the one that was fomented by the Europeans and the United States [in 2014], which will define the path of an entire nation with so much conflict.
….
I believe that we are already living the Third World War, why? …. [W]e are seeing the Europeans who have been getting into a quagmire, listening to the gringos. The President of France has already said it: we cannot continue to be subjected to the policies dictated by the US; we have to form our own policy and not be their instrument. He said it and caused uneasiness in the American government. Why? Because the European people are suffering with that war; all the people there are suffering with that war. And the American people are also beginning to feel the effects of this war in the financial and economic aspects.
And this is already a Third World War because the whole world is involved in this war. The CELAC countries, I would say that here they have been careful not to get involved. There has been an attitude of neutrality, and to demand that an agreement for peace be sought; what they are asking for is peace, peace, peace, peace, peace!
We were talking with the Foreign Minister about the efforts being made by the Russian Federation, by President Putin, to seek peace with security, and that is what Europe must understand, that there must be peace in a new world. This war is the Third War in the world, which I am sure nobody wants to escalate with nuclear weapons, because then there will be no one left on the planet. It is a matter of life or death for humanity and for all nations. Therefore, the European nations must be concerned, the American people must be concerned, because the security of the whole world is at stake. ….
We are talking about cooperation in these conditions that Russia is going through, which are not easy, with their economy blocked and sanctioned, but they are managing to sustain themselves, even growing in some aspects, in economic activities, in exports.
And speaking of the cooperation of the Russian Federation with Nicaragua, the attitude of solidarity of the Russian people with the peoples of the world is clear. Where they gave their greatest demonstration of solidarity in the Second World War, many millions of human beings died there for peace and to defeat Nazism.
Today, Peace Day here in Nicaragua, look carefully at all the aggression we are suffering, the fierce campaign against our country, against our people….
And once again I call all Nicaraguans, all bishops… I call on all those Nicaraguans who are talking about bombs, that they are going to do this or do that, that they are going to go out and kill, to forget about that, and that we all get together to work for peace, in this blessed and always free Nicaragua. (Radio La Primerisima, 20 April 2023)
Briefs, April 20, 2023
Nearly Five Million Nicaraguans Traveled over Holy Week
The Nicaragua Tourism Board (INTUR) reported that 4,877,645 people traveled to various destinations of the country during the Holy Week holidays. The most visited destinations, including San Juan del Sur, Ometepe, Tola, Granada and Corn Island registered 100% hotel occupancy. INTUR Co-director Anasha Campbell stated that “the results registered during Holy Week exceeded by 11.6% projections set by INTUR.” She added that “at INTUR we are very pleased with these numbers because they are the result of coordination between the government and private businesses working towards recovery and strengthening of the tourism sector post pandemic.” (Nicaragua News, 13 Abril 2023)
Fewer Holy Week Deaths, Accidents and Crimes Compared to 2022
During Holy Week this year, there were 1,043 religious processions with 106,800 participants and 568 vigils with 57,800 participants. There were also four aquatic via crucis (stations of the cross) on Nicaragua’s lakes and rivers. Over a million vehicles were regulated on the highways. There was police vigilance in parks, markets, bus stations, and neighborhoods. The police answered 34,340 calls made to the police emergency number 118. There was police protection at 843 tourist centers and swimming areas. All this led to fewer crimes across the board compared to Holy Week 2022.
In 144 of 153 municipalities there were no homicides. In 134 municipalities, there were no traffic deaths. [Editor’s note: There were no mass shootings with automatic weapons.To have permission for a weapon is a very difficult process including notarized statements from several family members and a psychologist that you are in sound mental health, not depressed, and not an alcoholic or drug addict. Few weapons are in the hands of the population, in part, because the people are more interested in living in peace and tranquility.] (Detalles del Momento TV program), 12 April, 2023
Government Consolidates Economic Growth
On April 13, Minister of Finance and Public Credit Iván Acosta presented his Annual Report to the National Assembly saying that, during 2022, the government continued the program to fight poverty and consolidated the path of economic growth. During 2022, the country’s foreign debt decreased by five percent, one of the best performances in Central America. Acosta highlighted the 2022 municipal elections, programs to fight poverty, security and safety in Nicaragua, gender equity advances, development on the Caribbean Coast, environmental policies for the protection of natural resources, growth in investment, important laws, decrees and agreements approved in 2022, and other issues that were included in the government’s summary of its management during the past year.
The Report states that, as of December 31, 2022, US$75.61 million in financing was provided to micro and small-scale agricultural producers, 51.2% higher than in 2021. Forty million dollars in private municipal investments were registered generating 2,148 new ventures. The GDP grew 3.8% and exports totaled US$7.73, 12.6% in growth compared to 2021.
Acosta pointed out that until 2017 the country was on its way to having the best economic development in its history, something that was destroyed by the 2018 coup attempt. “We are in April now and we will never forget what happened then. The country, until 2017, had reduced overall poverty from 48.3% to 24.9% and extreme poverty from 17.2% to 6.9%; that is, it decreased poverty by two points per year until 2017. Extreme poverty would have been reduced by now to about 3 percent,” he said. He went on to say, “These conditions were cunningly attacked by the enemies of the people, the greatest destruction of wealth in Nicaragua’s history incomparable with any other event, even the Managua earthquake. The failed coup attempt destroyed more than US$600 for each citizen, that is to say, each family lost approximately US$2,700 (US$27 billion in total) as a result of the coup attempt. In spite of all this, the government focused its best efforts to maintain public employment, to preserve the capacity to provide services to the population, such as health, education, citizen security, energy and water services.”
Acosta highlighted the strategy promoted by the government to save lives in the face of the pandemic and to keep the country in constant production so that the economy could function. “Looking at the reactivation of the economy in 2021, with more than 10.3 percent growth and a 2022 with more than 3.8 percent growth, among Latin American countries Nicaragua grew the most, with the exception of Guyana.” Among the sectors pushing that growth were the service sector, industry, transportation and communication, trade, fishing and agriculture. He added, “We project three percent growth in 2023 and we could approach four percent. …. [A]nd currently our GDP has reached US$15.7 billion and per capita GDP is at about US$2,300 dollars. (Radio La Primerisima, 13 Abril 2023)
Poll Shows Population Approves of Government Management
M&R Consultants polling firm presented the results of its recent national survey corresponding to the first quarter of 2022. The survey reports that 75.4% of Nicaraguans approve the work of the government headed by President Daniel Ortega; 76.4% believe the government is leading the country in the right direction; 85.6% state that the government generates hope among the population; 88% believe the institutions resolve issues in a timely manner and 90.7% said Nicaragua is overcoming the healthcare crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. (Nicaragua News, 13 Abril 2023)
Energy and Housing, China’s Priorities with Nicaragua
On April 14 the governments of Nicaragua and the People’s Republic of China signed agreements to develop programs and projects with the support of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA). The first agreement signed was for the rehabilitation project of 150 megawatts of thermal energy. Then an agreement was signed for a feasibility study of phase two of the Nuevas Victorias Housing Program which will include 920 affordable homes. Luo Zhaohui, President of CIDCA, headed the delegation for the People’s Republic of China. (Radio La Primerisima, 15 April 2023)
Agricultural System Rated Highly by WOAH
The Institute of Agricultural Protection and Health (IPSA) [the Nicaraguan regulatory agency that tests for pesticides and other contaminants on fresh produce, grains, raw meats, and dairy products] reported that Nicaragua’s sanitary status is one of the best in the region thanks to the rigorous deployment of an agri-food sanitation model throughout the nation’s production chain. Nohemy Pineda Sáenz, head of its laboratories department, said that they have three analysis centers in the capital: the veterinary diagnostic center, the phytosanitary laboratory and the chemical and biological residues laboratory and there are seven laboratories in the rest of the country.
Nicaragua is free of diseases such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy, classical swine fever, and African swine fever, among others. Institute personnel are assisted by a high-quality system, with accreditations and updated and standardized methodologies that are internationally recognized. Government work through IPSA is not limited to laboratory work, but includes inspection and supervision which is carried out in situ.
Wilmer Juárez, the Institute’s animal health director said that the country’s sanitary status is enviable in the region. “We were historically a country of hoof and mouth disease [but no longer] and in 2018 we submitted Nicaragua to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) for recognition of Nicaragua’s status as a country with negligible risk for bovine spongiform encephalopathy. Nicaragua is recognized for its sanitary status by the WOAH, so this opens the markets to the region and the world,” he said. He emphasized the epidemiological surveillance system on farms and in food processing plants. “Our production system is oriented to strengthen all the actions that maintain all these statuses, which every November we must document before the WOAH.” (Radio La Primerisima, 13 April 2023)
Five Interactive Maps with Agricultural Information
The Ministry of Agriculture (MAG) presented five interactive maps of the productive sector which will help producers of all crops identify the best areas for planting and harvesting. The maps allow producers, teachers, students, professionals, technicians, investors and the general public “to know the production, sown area of crops, soil fertility by department and municipality, areas of basic grains, coffee, cocoa, bananas, vegetables and others. The maps also show the crops and areas that use irrigation systems, identifying the types of systems, water sources and areas under irrigation,” according to Ivania León Rivas, Vice Minister of MAG, who said that the maps will be available to the population on the MAG web page, to show production with permanent monitoring. Farmers and ranchers occupy 9.9 million manzanas [one manzana equals 1.7 acres] for the production of all types of food, allowing the country to achieve food sovereignty. León Rivas said that the maps reflect the importance of the agricultural sector, which represents 13.9 percent of the national economy, 30 percent of exports and generates 28.7 percent of employment nationwide. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/cinco-mapas-interactivos-con-toda-la-informacion-agropecuaria/ (Radio La Primerisima, 13 April 2023)
April 19 Declared National Day of Peace
On April 16 the National Assembly approved an initiative that declares April 19 of each year as the National Day of Peace in order to celebrate respect, harmony and fraternity for prosperity. Article 2 establishes that on the National Day of Peace and throughout the month of April of each year, families, communities, organizations and the state will implement actions and activities to celebrate the joy of living in peace. “Our National Hero and Universal Poet Rubén Darío, was a fierce defender of peace and forcefully denounced the aggressive and expansionist international policy of the empire of the North through his prose and poems, in which he characterized the true intentions of US imperialism, describing it as the main and future enemy of peace and humanity,” said Dr. Gustavo Porras, National Assembly President. Dr. Porras also said that since the triumph of the revolution, the people and government of Nicaragua have faced “a US war of aggression and we preserve peace not only in our territory but also in the Central American region, a fact that is demonstrated in the different agreements signed by the Nicaraguan State. Our vocation for peace has always been evident.” (Radio La Primerisima, 16 April 2023)
Nicaragua Rejects EU Ambassador
The Government of Nicaragua suspended the placet it had granted to Fernando Ponz as European Union ambassador according to a statement released on April 18 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement. The statement read: “In view of the interfering and insolent communiqué of this day, which confirms the imperialist and colonialist positions of the European Union, this April 18, on the eve of the National Day of Peace, the sovereign and dignified government of the Republic of Nicaragua, on behalf of the brave, heroic and courageous people of this blessed and free homeland of Rubén Darío and Augusto Sandino, has decided to suspend the placet that had been granted to Mr. Fernando Ponz as ambassador of that subjugating power. We reiterate to the neocolonialist gentlemen and women of the European Union our condemnation of all their historic genocide and we demand justice and reparation for these crimes against humanity and for their virulent, greedy and rapacious plundering of our wealth and cultures. In these circumstances and in the face of the permanent siege on the rights of our people to national sovereignty, we will not receive their representative.” The statement was signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Denis Moncada Colindres. (Radio La Primerisima, 18 April 2023)
Six More Women in Police Leadership Positions
The National Police appointed six women to different leadership positions within its structures. The changes are as follows according to a department press release: Major Commissioner Zaida Matilde Pineda Aráuz, formerly second chief of the Internal Affairs Directorate, becomes chief of the National Public Security Directorate. Major Commissioner Jeovania Margarita Chamorro Villagra, former head of the “Arlen Siú” women’s special brigade department, DOEP, becomes second head of the Police Special Operations Directorate, DOEP, and commissioner Ester María Muñoz Castellano, former head of the Police Information Center, becomes second head of the Police Intelligence Directorate. Commissioner Belking Jaoska Trujillo, former head of the homicide department of the Judicial Assistance Directorate, takes over as assistant head of the Judicial Assistance Directorate; Commissioner Mónica Moreno Sequeira, former head of the Human Trafficking department of the Judicial Assistance Directorate, takes over as assistant head of the Internal Affairs Directorate. Deputy Commissioner Lliechen Voronova Benítez Romero, formerly head of the police sub-delegation located in the San Judas neighborhood of District 3, takes over as assistant head of the District 2 police delegation Managua. (Radio La Primerisima, 15 April 2023)
Archeological Find of Shaman near Managua
The Directorate of Historical Heritage of the Managua Mayor’s Office published a paper on the archaeological find at the San Cristóbal site (Managua), located on a plain that encompasses much of the land behind the Augusto C. Sandino International Airport. The report, based on an interview conducted by Clemente Guido with César Espinoza Pérez, head of excavation and archaeological rescue of San Cristóbal, about the finding of a shaman with his representative grave goods, points out that the burials located in this location follow patterns of burials that were unknown in the Managua Valley. For example, the remains appear to be a shaman, due to his funerary attire consisting of a drum and deer horns. The skeleton with flexed legs is a type of burial very common in the Olmecs of Mexico. The Masaya Volcano was part of the landscape of this site. The skeleton is described as a shaman because of the things found with him. He likely would have used natural medicine, divination, and had other social functions among the original communities of Nicaragua. Espinoza Perez said that until now no pre-Hispanic burials had been found with individuals who had deer horns as part of their funerary trousseau. See Photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/el-historico-hallazgo-de-un-chaman-en-san-cristobal-de-managua/ (Radio la Primerisima, 15 April 2023)
Briefs, April 13, 2023
WHO & PAHO Celebrate Nicaragua’s Vaccination Work
Dr. Enrique Perez, representing both the World Health Organization (PAHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in Nicaragua, explained how vaccines are a good tool to protect and provide health to the population. During his participation in the official launching of Nicaragua’s yearly vaccination campaign, Perez celebrated the vaccine application coverage and described it as very high. Perez pointed out that PAHO is always willing to provide technical cooperation for the Ministry of Health. He highlighted the national vaccination campaign currently being carried out in which the 2023 goal is to apply more than 2,136,000 doses of vaccines. The head of MINSA, Dr. Martha Reyes, said the campaign protects against 17 diseases and restores the right to health to thousands of people. The government initiative lasts through the month of April. (Radio La Primerisima, 12 April 2023)
British Teachers Highlight Quality of Education in Nicaragua
British educator Heather Marcano said that the integral education that students receive in Nicaragua reflects the reality of a country rich in culture, nature and generosity. During the annual conference of the National Educators Union of the United Kingdom (NEU-UK), held in Harrogate, York County, England from April 3 to 6, Marcano shared her experience as a member of the delegation of British teachers that visited Nicaragua recently. Labour MP, Christine Blower said that she has Nicaragua in her heart and confirmed NEU’s commitment to continue the teacher exchanges with the Nicaragua Teacher’s Association (ANDEN) to support English as a second language education and continue deepening relations of friendship and solidarity between the two teachers’ unions. During the four-day conference, the Nicaraguan delegation from ANDEN participated in plenary sessions, working groups and exchanges with union delegations from other countries, as well as with the national presidency and members of the British union. During the last day of the conference, a solidarity event entitled “Nicaragua: Advancing the Education Revolution” was held with the participation of Professor Aleyda Cruz and Nicaraguan Ambassador to the United Kingdom Guisell Morales. Cruz highlighted the advances and the challenges of Nicaragua’s free, inclusive and quality educational model. (Radio La Primerisima, 7 April 2023)
Central Bank 2022 Foreign Debt Report Published
On April 5 the Central Bank published the 2022 External Debt and Statistics Report. The report states that the public external debt reached US$14.9 billion in 2022, of which US$8.12 billion corresponded to public sector loans. Multilateral sources contributed US$14.2 billion representing 95.4% of the total, while the remaining US$686 million (4.6%) came from bilateral sources. The report also noted that US$3.23 billion in debt service of public loans was paid, 92.4% corresponding to payment of principal and 7.5% to interest and commissions. (Nicaragua News, 11 April 2023)
Nicaragua Has Second Highest Growth in Credit Portfolio in the Region
Last week, the risk rating agency Fitch Ratings published a report on the Central American credit portfolio in 2022. The report indicates that, with 14.6% growth in loans, Nicaragua had the second highest growth in its credit portfolio, surpassed only by Honduras with 33.3%. (Nicaragua News, 11 April 2023)
New Crime Lab in Boaco
The National Police in Boaco inaugurated a modern crime laboratory, in honor of Police Inspector Alex Torres Espinoza. “This laboratory will strengthen the work of police investigation. We have scientific technical equipment now to make analyses that are required in every police investigation,” said general commissioner Glenda Zavala. She emphasized that this is an opportunity for the police and the victims of a criminal act, to quickly clarify a crime through criminalistics. The laboratory provides forensic criminalistics including biology, a department of ocular inspections of the crime scene and investigation of accidents, explosions and more. The mother of Inspector Torres, María Espioza, said that she was grateful for this honor of her late son. (Radio La Primerisima, 6 April 2023)
Hotels Were Full During Holy Week
Minister of Tourism Anasha Campbell reported that the country’s tourist centers saw an increase of 10% in the number of people visiting them compared to 2022. Likewise, she said that hotel occupancy grew this year with respect to the same season of 2022 “by more than 50% occupancy throughout the national territory.” She added that “Destinations such as San Juan del Sur, Granada, Tola, Ometepe, and Corn Island, were practically at 100% occupancy. In Corn Island there was more demand than supply in terms of the boats that transfer families from Bluefields to the Island. Families have been able to enjoy all of our truly beautiful Nicaragua in this season of love, joy and life 2023.” (Radio la Primerisima, 10 Abril 2023)
More Houses of Culture Opened Around the Country
The Nicaraguan Institute of Culture and the Rubén Darío National Theater have helped start 141 Houses of Culture and Creativity throughout the country. On April 15, the municipalities of Santo Domingo and San Francisco de Cuapa will inaugurate their first Houses of Culture. The municipalities guarantee beautiful spaces for learning and development of talent and creativity in children, young people and adults. The goal is to have 186 Cultural Houses which means that only 45 are still pending. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/han-sido-instaladas-141-casas-de-cultura-y-creatividad/ (Radio La Primerisima, 11 April 2023)
San Juan de Limay Gets Water Park
Local authorities and inhabitants of urban and nearby rural areas inaugurated the first stage of the water park in the small municipality of San Juan de Limay, Esteli. “This Water Park has two pools, one for adults and older kids and the other for small children,” said Mayor Flor Maria Mendoza. This first stage of the Aquatic Park includes several games that are inside the pools. “This is a dream come true for all Limay families; it should be mentioned that this is the first stage of a mega project.” (Radio La Primerisima, 6 April 2023)
Students Learn about Harmful Effects of Transgenic Foods
Tenth and eleventh grade students of public high schools like the Instituto Público Experimental México, located in Managua, are participating in workshops on transgenic foods (GMO) and their harmful effects on the environment and health as part of the celebration of the International Day of Science and Technology. Posters at the workshop highlighted the problem of the planting of crops resistant to insecticides and herbicides that damage other crops, the water, the soil and the air. Teacher María Elisa Vargas, explained that this workshop is made available to the students so that they can also learn about the effects on human health of consuming junk food and highly processed food. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/estudiantes-reciben-taller-sobre-efectos-nocivos-de-alimentos-transgenicos/ (Radio La Primerisima, 11 April 2023)
Briefs, April 6, 2023
Notable Increase in Tourism
The Chamber of International Transportation, a business group, registered an increase of almost 80% in the entry of tourists to the country this season, the representative of that sector, Enrique Quiñonez, told Radio La Primerísima. The majority of visitors arriving in the country are from Costa Rica, the United States, Israel and Canada. He also pointed out that an increase in travelers’ length of stay has been observed. “The image of the country has changed: the tourists say that the situation in the country is not what they had been told abroad, that here there is peace, there is calm, there is security and the people of Nicaragua are concerned about progress and support the government’s policies,” Quiñonez said. He added that all bus seats into the country for Holy Week are taken. Quiñonez, general manager of NICABUS International which travels between Costa Rica and Nicaragua, said that in his case they will add four more buses for a total of eight units that will circulate every day during this season, transporting some 400 tourists daily to Nicaragua. (Radio La Primerisima, 30 March 2023)
Earthquake Drill Is Great Success
The National Center for Disaster Prevention, Mitigation and Attention (SINAPRED) organized the National Multi-Threat Exercise for Preparation and Preservation of Life, carried out on March 30. SINAPRED Director, Dr. Guillermo González, reported that 1.8 million Nicaraguans participated in the exercise simulating a magnitude 7.8 earthquake, with its epicenter located at 30 kilometers of depth, off the Pacific coast of Masachapa. Some 7,000 Local Emergency Committees were activated in the points identified as the most vulnerable to the effects of a major earthquake that could generate landslides, tsunamis, volcanic activity and infrastructure collapse. This exercise tested the VHF and HF frequency communication systems at the national and international levels, in the event of a possible failure of conventional services. There was also an evaluation of the response protocol of the Ministry of Education Risk Commission, in the event of a threat to the lives of students in emergency situations. SINAPRED also tested the effectiveness of canine units in search and rescue scenarios. (Nicaragua News, 31 March 2023)
Nicaragua Rejects UN Human Rights Report and Resolution
The government of Nicaragua once again expressed its total rejection of the resolution that the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights intends to present on Nicaragua. The government reiterated in a statement released in Geneva on April 3 that this type of resolution constitutes unilateral aggression with the sole purpose of damaging the sovereignty and independence of Nicaragua. The statement demanded that the UNHCHR apply in all its actions the principle of non-intervention and equal treatment for all nations. Nicaragua emphasized that it does not accept any resolution or report whose content is constructed with distorted information and taken only from sources that are adverse to the government. What these reports really contain, said the government in its statement, is information totally lacking in objectivity and with a marked political bias. See statement: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/nicaragua-ratifica-total-rechazo-a-resoluciones-de-la-onu/ [See rejection signed by dozens of organizations and hundreds of people: https://nicasolidarity.net/taking-action/action-alert-un-human-rights-report-on-nicaragua-is-fatally-flawed-and-should-be-withdrawn/] Radio La Primerisima, 3 April 2023
Exports Totaled US$7.731 Billion in 2022
The annual report of the Nicaragua Central Bank (BCN) that was released on April 3 reported that total exports for 2022 were US$7.7 billion. Non free trade zone exports grew 10.5%, for an income of US$3.88 billion driven by manufacturing, agricultural and mining products, with an increase in the exported value of gold, coffee, dairy products, sugar, beans, among others. Exports from free trade zones totaled US$3.85 billion (14.8% growth), reflecting the recovery of world demand, which favored automobile harnesses, textiles and the tobacco industries. Remittances totaled US$3.23 billion, tourism income was US$596 million and gross foreign direct investment income was US$1.84 billion. The balance of payments current account balance ended 2022 with a deficit that represented 1.4% of GDP. In a context of higher domestic price pressures, monetary policy was balanced, leaving the monetary balance consistent with currency stability and exchange rate support.
In a context of a tightening of global monetary policy through increases in the rates of interest of the main central banks of the world and in view of the persistence of international inflation, the Central Bank made gradual adjustments in interest rates until completing seven increases throughout the year (from 3.50% at the beginning of the year to 7.00% at the end of December). This was done in order to preserve monetary equilibrium in an environment of higher inflation, in particular, to prevent the increase in international interest rates from generating an outflow of capital from the country in search of better yields. (Radio La Primerisima, 3 April 2023)
Growth in Foreign Direct Investment
The Central Bank’s report on the Results in the IV Quarter 2022 Balance of Payments states that Gross Foreign Direct Investment reached US$1.84 billion between September and December 2022, a 25.3% increase compared to the same period in 2021. The FDI Net Flow was US$1.3 billion, representing 6% growth over the amount registered by December of 2021. (Nicaragua News, 30 March 2023)
“Right to Choose and Duty to Respect” Booklet presented to Christian Leader
Government authorities held a meeting with non-governmental organizations and church representatives to present the booklet entitled “The Right to Choose and the Duty to Respect,” with the objective of promoting love and unity in families. Minister of the Exterior Denis Moncada stated that since 2007 the government has promoted a solid model of dignified diversity equity through actions that contribute to the wellbeing of families. Moncada said, “Today brings us together in this important presentation of the booklet, work done by outstanding colleagues in the government, in a diverse world with the duty to respect the diversity of human beings.” He said that this primer is an instrument of peace to reaffirm that love in families allows them to find the way to understand, respect and accept the diversity of identities. “All of us must not only ourselves respect people with diverse identities, but also foster respect within our own towns, neighborhoods, and communities.” See video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BJt2jwESCU&ab_channel=vivanicaragua13 (TN8TV, 3 April, 2023)
Tablets to Improve Health Care
The Ministry of Health gave more than 1,000 electronic tablets to health workers around the nation which Dr. Oscar Vásquez, director of Health Services, said are part of the process of incorporating new health technologies, thus strengthening the process of care for families. He stated, “We are reaching the heart of the Family and Community Health Model which are the sectors where we have health personnel, doctors and nurses, who are carrying out house-to-house visits, visiting pregnant women, newborns, and the chronically ill. The tablets are intended for colleagues to make the work process more practical.” He also noted that “They will be better able to discover statistical trends, compliance with goals, and establish communication with regional and departmental hospitals to ask for clinical-medical advice when an emergency arises.” The Ministry of Health now has digital platforms to communicate with personnel who are providing services in the most remote communities. “Before we had to carry reports by hand, such as the census of pregnant women, vaccine reports, and we couldn’t deliver the information until we got back to a center; now we report the work immediately,” said Alfonso Romero, a nurse from Nueva Guinea. (Radio La Primerisima, 30 March 2022)
Reforestation Campaign Reached 112% of Goal
The reforestation campaign Verde, te quiero verde (Green, I want you green) has reached 112% of the programmed goal in its first stage with 1.25 million trees planted. Reforestation was carried out in the departments of Boaco, Carazo, Chontales, Estelí, Jinotega, Las Minas, León, Madriz, Managua, Masaya, Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, Costa Caribe Norte, Costa Caribe Sur, Río San Juan, Rivas and Central Zelaya. Over thirty-seven thousand people have been involved in the different activities, setting up 2,450 community nurseries. Now everything is ready to begin the second stage in May, with the goal of reforesting with 26 million plants. Also, during the campaign, 54,468 people participated in talks and training sessions. Over twelve thousand farmers and owners of forest plantations and wooded areas were trained in the management and protection of these areas. See Photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/siembran-mas-de-1-millon-de-arboles-con-campana-de-reforestacion/ (Radio La Primerisima, 1 April, 2023)
Briefs, March 30, 2023
Government Hydrocarbon Subsidies Help Economy
The decision by the government of President Daniel Ortega to subsidize all of the increases in hydrocarbons since 2022 has had a positive impact on the economy. This decision prevented an increase in prices of cooking gas, gasoline and diesel, public transportation, electricity, and drinking water for the population. The impact on the electricity rate due to international oil prices has been US$120 million. The Sandinista government has absorbed the increase that in other countries gets passed onto consumers. In Nicaragua’s case it has benefitted more than 1.1 million families. In 2022 the government contributed close to US$90 million in subsidies for gasoline and diesel fuels to benefit Nicaraguan families and economic sectors. In Managua, 966,000 users have benefited from the transportation subsidy as well as more than 300,000 users on the Caribbean Coast and some 300,000 users of interurban and water transport, with a direct benefit for all cargo transportation. This has meant that impacts on food prices have been avoided. The month of June 2022 saw the highest peak in oil prices, reaching US$114 per barrel. (Informe Pastran, 27 March 2023)
Pantasma Crater Among Important Meteor Impacts in the World
The Pantasma crater has been incorporated into the Earth Impact Database of the Dominion Observatory, located in the Canadian city of Ottawa, which has the most important meteor impact database in the world. The Pantasma crater, which was made about 800,000 years ago, is being internationally recognized as one of the four most important meteor impacts that occurred in the last million years of the Earth’s age. The portal has recorded more than 200 impact craters and Pantasma is the first recognized in Central America and was included among the 13 recorded in South American. The IGG-CIGEO has conducted studies at Pantasma in order to identify evidence to explain the origin of the crater. In coordination with Dr. Pierre Rochette, of the University of Marseille in France, geomorphological, petrographic and geochemical analyses were carried out to reveal the nature of the crater. http://www.passc.net/EarthImpactDatabase/New%20website_05-2018/Pantasma.html; https://radiolaprimerisima.com/crater-de-pantasma-entre-impactos-meteoricos-mas-importantes-del-mundo/ (Radio La Primerisima, 23 March 2023)
Nicaragua has Highest Covid Vaccination Rate in the Region
The Pan American Health Organization reported this week that with 95% of the population fully vaccinated against COVID-19, Nicaragua is the country in the Central American region with the highest percentage of fully vaccinated population; followed by Costa Rica (84.5%), Panama (72.8%), El Salvador (68.8%), Honduras (57.9%), Guatemala (41.5%). (Nicaragua News, 27 March 2023)
Health Ministry Presents National Map of Diseases
The Ministry of Health presented the updated National Map of Diseases that affect Nicaraguans. The most frequent chronic diseases reported in 2022 were hypertension (260,811 cases); diabetes mellitus (135,695) and rheumatic diseases (100,638). The report also notes that the main cause for hospitalization last year was pneumonia (27,861) and the main cause of death was acute myocardial infarction (5,159). The Pan American Health Organization Interim Representative, Dr. Enrique Pérez, stated that “PAHO wishes to congratulate the Nicaragua Government for making available to the population detailed information on the health situation and public health achievements. This type of mapping allows authorities to design strategies and programs to improve healthcare indicators.” (Nicaragua News, 22 March 2023)
New Bridge Inaugurated in Wiwilí
The new Kilambé bridge across the Coco River in Wiwilí municipality, Jinotega Department, was inaugurated on March 21. The cost of the bridge was US$2.52 million benefiting 89,039 inhabitants. Construction of the bridge is in response to the needs of the population in the area who experience isolation and precariousness each rainy season when the Coco River rises. Financing for the project came from the General Budget. (Nicaragua News, 24 March 2023)
Assembly Approves Special Window to Expedite Foreign Trade
The National Assembly approved a law creating a Single Window for Foreign Trade in order to streamline procedures and promote exports and imports. Deputy José Figueroa, vice-chair of the economy committee, explained that the purpose of the window will be to facilitate the procedures and legal security in foreign trade-related activities in imports and exports. It will use a technological platform attached to the Ministry for the Development of Industry and Commerce (MIFIC). Deputy Wálmaro Gutiérrez, chair of the committee, pointed out that foreign direct investments closed in 2022 at US$1.56 billion and the Single Window will promote further growth and security for businesses. (Radio La Primerisima, 28 March 2023)
Launch of CABEI’s First Bond on London Stock Exchange
Officials from the Nicaraguan Embassy in the United Kingdom accompanied the President of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), Dr. Dante Mosi, at the closing ceremony of the London Stock Exchange, marking the launch of the successful issue of the multilateral financial organization’s first Global Social Bond for 1.2 billion pounds sterling. The placement of this first bond is a milestone for CABEI, for the region and for the member countries, as it is the first on the London Stock Exchange, which is a global financial center. Its placement is a testimony to the financial soundness of this institution and reflects the trust placed in it by investors and will allow it to continue financing development and social impact projects in Central American countries. It also paves the way for future placements in support of the ecological, social and sustainability needs of Nicaragua and other countries in the region. Shrey Kohli, Director of Capital Markets at the London Stock Exchange, welcomed CABEI’s first social bond to the London Stock Exchange’s sustainable bond market, as a leading global center for green, social and sustainable finance, and congratulated CABEI on this issue, which will be the basis for future green, social and/or sustainability bonds. Ambassador Guisell Morales congratulated Dr. Dante Mossi for the issuance of this important bond, the proceeds of which will support the prosperity of Nicaragua and all the Bank’s partner countries. (Radio La Primerisima, 23 March 2023)
New Solar-Thermal Hybrid Generation Plant
To promote economic development through renewable energies, the Ministry of Energy and Mines granted a generation license to the Solar-Thermal Hybrid Generation Plant in San Juan de Nicaragua on the Caribbean coast, which has an installed capacity of 300 kilowatts of clean energy. This represents a reduction in emissions by replacing most of the bunker fuel with renewable solar energy, contributing to the fulfillment of the country’s climate commitments. The plant has had an impact on the quality of life of more than 470 families in this municipality, guaranteeing a better economy through clean and constant energy. The installation of the plant had an investment of US$1.4 million, and it can be operated through internet technology, guaranteeing that between 60% and 80% of the energy produced is renewable. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/otorgan-licencia-a-planta-que-genera-300-kilowatt-de-energia-limpia/ (Radio La Primerisima, 23 March 2023)
Families Doing Reforestation Receive Economic Incentive
Members of the National Fund for Forestry Development (FONADEFO), who reforest their communities, protect aquifers and conserve native forest species, received monetary incentives from the National Forestry Institute (INAFOR). This initiative includes 106 families with the commitment to restore 137 hectares, mainly in the dry corridor. They use native species in the reforestation. The economic incentives are also accompanied by tools and seeds. (Radio La Primerisima, 27 March 2023)
More Employment in African Palm Companies in South Caribbean
Three companies located in El Rama in the South Caribbean Autonomous Region provide formal, direct employment to 4,100 workers. Recently, representatives of the Free Trade Zone Commission and the Ministry of Labor visited Industrial Aceitera Kukra Hill S.A., San José Extraceite S.A., and Inducaribe S.A. Among the benefits that these companies provide to their workers through collective bargaining agreements are the construction of housing for the workers, guaranteed transportation, a Christmas basket, school vouchers and quality subsidies. Recently the companies announced coming expansion and more job creation. (Editor’s note: The Nicaraguan government has said that African palm is being planted in already deforested land.) (Radio La Primerisima, 28 March 2023)
500 Corn Island Fishers Receive Economic Packages
The Ministry of the Family delivered economic packages to 546 fishermen of the municipality of Corn Island, South Caribbean Coast, in order to ensure food for the families during the closed season for lobster fishing. Members of the Navy provided protection and security during the delivery. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/mas-de-500-pescadores-reciben-bono-en-corn-island/ (Radio La Primerisima, 23 March 2023)
Pilgrim Wagons Heading to Popoyuapa
Early on March 23 about 50 families from the communities Laguna #1 and Laguna #2, of the municipality of Granada began their journey in the traditional pilgrim carts to the National Shrine of Jesus del Rescate, in Popoyuapa. Believers from Masaya, Rivas and other departments of the country are also joining this tradition that dates back more than 100 years. Doña Margarita Arcia, 90 years old, said that throughout her life she has never once missed this pilgrimage. “My mother taught me and that’s how I began going. She taught us this way of going to see Jesus, who appeared on a mountain to a man who kept oxen. There were no carts, it was all paths and mountains. We take two carts, I go with my sons and daughters-in-law to see Jesus, who grants us everything we ask for,” said Arcia. The new generations also travel aboard the carts. Families can be seen along the road, reflecting the faith and culture of Granada. “We have been preparing for two weeks, buying provisions and we have had the carts ready for a week. Possibly, on Monday [March 27] we will arrive in Popoyuapa to deliver on our promises and on Thursday we will return home,” said Anielka Blas, who has been making this pilgrimage with her husband’s family for five years. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/carretas-peregrinas-rumbo-a-popoyuapa/ (Radio La Primerisima, 23 March 2023)
Ten-day Holy Week Vacation
State workers will go on vacation during Holy Week beginning after work on March 31 and returning on Tuesday, April 11, a full ten days to relax with family and friends. Vice President Rosario Murillo said that families go to “beaches, rivers, pools, enjoying this good, calm and safe, happy life that we have in our Nicaragua.” (Radio La Primerisima, 27 March 2023)
Bishop Alvarez Receives Visit from Siblings
Images of the family reunion that Bishop Rolando Alvarez had with his siblings, Vilma and Manuel Alvarez, on March 25 at the Jorge Navarro National Penitentiary System in Tipitapa show Alvarez enjoying a visit and meal. Family reunions in these penitentiary centers allow families, friends or people close to the inmates to enjoy a moment of tranquility with their loved ones. Also, within the penitentiary system, courses are offered for the inmates’ education. These courses are promoted by the National Penitentiary System in conjunction with the National Technological Institute (INATEC). In order to guarantee integral health care a modern dental clinic was recently opened. See photos: https://www.tn8.tv/nacionales/monsenor-alvarez-recibe-visita-de-sus-hermanos-en-el-sistema-penitenciario-de-tipitapa/ TN8TV, 25 March 2023
Briefs, March 23, 2023
Electricity Coverage 99.275% with 80% Renewable Energy
An official report from the Ministry of Energy and Mines shows that electricity coverage continues to advance in a consistent and sustained manner, reaching 99.275% at the end of February of this year. Since 2007 to date, 690,694 homes have been electrified and 3,633,465 inhabitants have benefited. Since 2007, 9,796 projects have been executed, increasing coverage from 54% to 99%. Last week five electrification projects were inaugurated in Murra, Somoto, Matiguás, El Rama and Río Blanco. This year the goal is to electrify 6,159 more homes with an investment of US$22.8 million with financing from CABEI. Meanwhile, the electricity generation matrix continues to set a record in the use of renewable energies, reaching 80% in March with only 20% non-renewable. That 80% was contributed by 0. 49% by solar energy; 11.77% hydroelectric; 14.04% geothermal; 19.05% biomass; 22.60% wind and 12.05% imports from the regional electricity market. Peak demand has been 727 MW with a total generation of 846 GWh. (Informe Pastran, 21 March 2023)
135 New Houses of Culture and Creativity Opened
The Nicaraguan Institute of Culture, the Rubén Darío National Theater and the municipalities have installed Houses of Culture and are working to have several in each municipality. So far more than 135 new cultural centers have been installed. During the course of this week the Mayor’s Office of San Carlos delivered to the families another space to share arts and culture. In the municipalities, progress is being made in the conditioning and improvement of infrastructures, with the purpose of installing these places according to the approved program, complying with the creation of conditions that allow the development of talent, ingenuity, tradition and identity. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/se-han-instalado-135-nuevas-casas-de-cultura-y-creatividad/ (Radio La Primerisima, 18 March 2023)
Nicaragua Strengthens Cooperation with IDB
The Minister of Finance and Public Credit Iván Acosta participated in the annual meeting of the International Development Bank and IDB Investor governors’ assembly in Panama City, from March 16 to 19. The governors of the IDB partner countries, after four years, met again in person to address a common agenda on cooperation issues.
Iván Acosta also met with authorities from member countries and international financial organizations to discuss international cooperation and achievements in Nicaragua. The representatives of the governments of the Central American countries supported President Ilan Goldfajn and his vision, who pledged to make the IDB the most reliable, agile and important development partner for Latin America and the Caribbean, giving priority attention to the social agenda, climate change and sustainable infrastructure.
Solid IDB support was requested for food security, education, the strengthening of micro, small and medium-scale businesses and technical cooperation, among others, that can make a positive difference in the lives of people in Central America. During the working sessions a dialogue was opened to evaluate the current international context, the challenges to generate a more inclusive and sustainable growth, and identify policy options to address the short and medium term challenges in the region. In his remarks, Ivan Acosta expressed his support for IDB’s new vision and business model and the development of a capital increase proposal. As an example of development effectiveness, he explained to the Board of Governors the impact of the IDB’s development effectiveness in Nicaragua in the energy sector, which through the National Sustainable Electrification and Renewable Energy Program contributed to poverty reduction by providing the population with access to efficient and sustainable electricity service, which supported the generation of conditions for change in the energy matrix and improved conditions for mitigating and adapting to climate change. (Radio La Primerisima, 20 March 2023)
Growth in Agricultural Exports
The Nicaragua System of Production, Consumption and Commerce reported on March 17 that production of exportable agricultural products during the 2022-2023 agricultural cycle, was 21.7% higher than the same period in the previous cycle. The products that showed the greatest growth in production during the period were white sorghum (29%); cocoa (20.3%); plantain (9.8%); peanuts (8.9%). The President of the Central Bank, Ovidio Reyes stated that US$2.955 billion in products were exported during the current agricultural cycle, 10.7% increase compared to the same period of the 2021-2022 agricultural cycle. (Nicaragua News, 20 March 2023)
Inauguration of High-tech Operating Rooms at Bertha Calderón Hospital
Two operating rooms will be inaugurated March 22 at the Bertha Calderón Hospital in Managua. Surgeries will be performed in the womb and on pregnant women with cancer. The operating room will have a high-tech intelligent audio and video system to watch live fetal surgery inside the mother’s womb. They will have an amphitheater type room for educational purposes for the training and teaching of medical specialties. They will also have high-tech medical equipment such as neonatal incubators, thermal cradles, anesthesia machines, universal ventilators, vital signs monitors, among others. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/construyen-quirofanos-de-alta-tecnologia-en-hospital-bertha-calderon/ (Radio La Primerisima, 21 March 2023)
Important Bridge in Wiwilí Finished
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has already finished the construction of the Kilambé bridge, 25 meters long, in Wiwilí, Jinotega, which will be inaugurated next Friday. This new bridge facilitates access to the Wiwilí primary hospital, allows land connectivity for 89,039 people in winter and summer, boosts economic development, contributes to poverty reduction and helps to promote stability, peace and prosperity for the families of this productive region. (Radio La Primerisima, 21 March 2023)
Sports Shoes Delivered to School Children
Young community promotors delivered sports shoes in districts 1, 2, 3, 3, 4, 5 and 6 of Managua to children from different schools. During the deliveries made on March 17, the promoters carried out festivals of traditional games, piñata breaking, balloon twisting and candy delivery. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/entregan-zapatos-deportivos-a-ninos-de-escuelas-de-managua/ (Radio La Primerisima, 18 March 2023)
Evangelical Crusade with More than 40,000 People
The Good News Evangelistic Crusade was a success with more than 40,000 people from 13 municipalities attending. The spiritual crusade closed the night of March 18 in Chinandega. See photos: https://www.tn8.tv/departamentos/finaliza-gran-cruzada-evangelistica-buenas-nuevas-nicaragua-en-chinandega/ (TN8TV, 19 March 2023)
Briefs, March 16, 2023
Government Continues to Subsidize Petroleum Products
The government announced that it will continue to cover 100% of the increase in the price of gasoline, diesel and cooking gas, so there will be no increase for consumers during the week of March 12 to 18, 2023. There has been a constant increase in the international price of oil and its derivatives since 2021 which affects the economies of all countries. But the Nicaraguan government announced that the new adjustments will not be applied, maintaining the local prices of gasoline and diesel fuels without variation for the benefit of the population. As for liquefied petroleum gas, the main fuel used by households for cooking, the government will continue to guarantee the same prices, without any adjustment. (Radio La Primerisima, 11 March 2023)
600,000 Property Titles Provide Legal Certainty to Owners
The Office of the Attorney General (PGR) released a report on the Legal Titling Program which states that 625,319 property titles were delivered to their new owners between 2007 and February 2023, benefiting 2,937,688 people. The report also states that 25 Indigenous and Afro-descendant territories have been demarcated, covering 38,426 square kilometers in 315 communities of the two Caribbean Autonomous Regions. Attorney General Wendy Morales stated that “the PGR is delivering 2,500 property titles weekly in order to continue guaranteeing access for all Nicaraguans to property legal certainty, as part of the restitution of rights promoted by the government.” (Nicaragua News, 10 March 2023)
New Houses of Culture and Creativity
The Nicaraguan Institute of Culture, the National Theater and Mayors’ Offices will install seven new Houses of Culture and Creativity during March, where the study of Plastic Arts, Music, Singing, Drawing, Painting, Dancing and Handicrafts, among others, will be promoted. In San Carlos, the Solentiname House of Culture and Creativity, was inaugurated on March 11. During the course of the month, these important cultural spaces will be opened for families in the municipalities of Jinotega, Boaco, Somoto, San Francisco de Cuapa, San Juan de Rio Coco and La Trinidad. See Photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/instalaran-siete-casas-de-cultura-y-creatividad-durante-marzo/ (Radio La Primerisima, 11 March 2023)
The Right to a Dignified Home Restored in Muy Muy, Department of Matagalpa
As part of the commemoration of International Women’s Day, the keys to five homes were handed over to five families in the Villa Revolución neighborhood in the municipality of Muy Muy, Matagalpa. The Sandinista Government continues to restore the rights taken away from Nicaraguan families by neoliberalism. Deputy Mayor Oscar Sotelo said, “And so, on behalf of you, who are part of this neighborhood and with your taxes make it possible for the municipal mayor’s office to help and support these families, I turn over these keys.” Through the social program promoted by the government, low-income families can access a house that has a cost of about US$6,000. One of the beneficiaries, Karla Martinez, said, “I am happy because today I am benefiting from the housing project of the Houses for the People. I know that there are many needs that President Daniel will continue to support. The mayor had already told us how expensive this house is, and we only gave a small contribution.” See photos: https://www.tn8.tv/departamentos/restitucion-de-derechos-a-viviendas-dignas-en-muy-muy-matagalpa/] (TVTN8, 13 March 2023)
Bank Superintendent Highlights Soundness and Solvency of Banks
Nicaragua has a solid and solvent financial environment, stated Superintendent of Banks Luis Ángel Montenegro before the National Assembly. During the presentation of the Annual Management Report 2022, the official said that, during this period, the deposits of the public exceeded historical levels and the placement of bank loans grew which translates into confidence in the national financial system and its regulation. At the close of 2022 the gross portfolio balance was US$4.2 billion, a 15.3% increase over 2021. Montenegro reported that the non-performing portfolio is the lowest in Central America at 1.5%, down from 2.4% last year. He also said that the portfolio at risk is also decreasing compared to last year at 8.2%, while in 2021 it was 12.8%. As for interest rates, domestic banks have maintained stable levels which allow credit growth with an interest rate at 11.8% in 2022. During 2022 bank deposits from the public were higher, reaching about US$5 billion, with a 12.9% growth. These funds belong to 1.7 million Nicaraguans. “With this we mean that public deposits today exceed even what there was in 2018. This demonstrates macroeconomic confidence in the management of banks and the regulatory system. The average inter-annual growth rate in the last three years stood at 15% which allowed the level of public deposits to reach a historical maximum in December 2022,” he said. (Radio La Primerisima, 15 March 2023)
Booklet on Care of Small Children Made Available
The Ministry of Health presented the booklet for the Loving Care of Children from Birth to Five Years of Age at Home, which contains a series of recommendations for the safety of minors. See photos here: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/presentan-cartilla-para-cuidado-amoroso-de-ninas-y-ninos-de-0-a-5-anos/ (Radio La Primerisima, 15 March, 2022)
Nicaragua Suspends Diplomatic Relations with the Vatican
The Government of Nicaragua has announced that, in view of the information that has been disclosed by sources apparently linked to the Catholic Church, a suspension of diplomatic relations has been established between the Vatican State and the Republic of Nicaragua. The announcement noted how the media linked to the 2018 coup attempt that attacked and killed Nicaraguan people were the ones who disseminated the distorted news that in these times is known as fake news. (Radio La Primerisima, 12 March 2023)
Here are two further articles on the topic: Saint Peter Loses his Balance by Fabrizio Casari, https://www.tortillaconsal.com/bitacora/node/1427 and Vulgar Popes, Decrepit Churches, Small Homelands and Large Homelands by Jorge Capelán, https://www.tortillaconsal.com/bitacora/node/1428
Briefs, March 9, 2023
Healthy Women Campaign: More Than 2 Million Consults and Procedures
The Ministry of Health successfully carried out the Healthy Women Campaign between Jan. 16 and March 2, with 2,008,433 services provided for women including 3,692 surgeries, 12,626 specialized care services, 18,426 breast ultrasounds, and 15,654 mammograms. (Radio La Primerisima, 4 March 2023)
Government Has Built 181 Maternity Waiting Homes
Since 2013, the government has promoted the strategy of building maternity waiting homes in order to reduce perinatal maternal mortality. Currently there are 181 maternity waiting homes to assist women in the final period of their pregnancy. The women are mainly from rural areas, although they can also come from the urban sector if they wish. The mayor of Ticuantepe, Dr. Ligia Ramirez, said that the strategy is to have at least one maternity waiting home in each municipality. “It is a strategy that has supported the family, because there are people who live in places that are not close to health centers and here they can be seen by doctors. They can sleep and they will have their baby in a hospital or a well-staffed health center,” Ramirez said. “Here they come to rest, to relax, to de-stress and also to receive timely medical attention. This strategy has led to a decrease in maternal mortality,” she added. “The women can come here two weeks before [their due dates] and sometimes they can stay for more than a month, depending on their condition,” she noted. Among the benefits they receive are lodging, food, and education on subjects such as dental care, self-esteem, women’s rights, risks during pregnancy, and newborn care. They can also learn about how to cultivate family gardens, handicrafts, costume jewelry and cooking recipes. The maternity waiting homes have a staff dedicated to the care of pregnant women who provide 24-hour care. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/casas-maternas-contribuyen-a-reducir-la-mortalidad-materna/ (Radio La Primerisima, 7 March 2023)
CABEI President Praises Nicaragua’s Project Choices and Execution
During an interview with EFE news agency on March 6th in Costa Rica, the President of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), Dante Mossi, stated that “Nicaragua is exemplary in the execution of projects financed by international organizations. It is a country that has an extensive project portfolio that authorities execute effectively, with great transparency and agility. From the perspective of the Bank, Nicaragua is a member country in very good financial standing that always requests funds for projects to promote the integral development of the country; from first-world hospitals, support for the agricultural sector, electricity in the most remote areas and high-quality highways, generating real positive changes for the population. CABEI is pleased to support these types of initiatives.” (Nicaragua News, 7 March 2023)
Nicaragua Launches Booklet on Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Authorities of Nicaraguan government institutions presented the booklet entitled “Attention and care for persons with disabilities” to promote and guarantee the full exercise of their human rights. The booklet states that every person with a disability has the right to be part of education, health, sports, culture, work, and political activities. The booklet guides the family on how to care for and attend in a loving and respectful way people with disabilities who require greater support to live well, with peace of mind, wellbeing and a better quality of life. Minister of Health Martha Reyes recalled that, through the program Todos con Voz, house to house visits are made as well as delivery of aid to individuals and families. The head of the Ministry of the Family, Johana Flores, said, “It is one more effort that adds to this whole strategy of promoting life…. We are mandated to work with the family and the community to strengthen the restoration of the rights of our brothers and sisters with disabilities.” See photos: HERE (19 Digital, 4 March 2023)
National Port Security Highlighted
The executive director of the Central American Commission for Maritime Transport (COCATRAM), Otto Noack, highlighted the model implemented by Nicaragua which has been very positively valued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and shows excellent port security. The 11th Meeting of IMO 2023 was held in Nicaragua and ended on March 4. Virgilio Silva, executive president of the Nicaraguan National Port Enterprise (EPN), said that “This organization [the IMO] is unique in the world where we work as a team with great responsibility for port security in our countries. We have been organizing everything related to the security of the port system nationwide.” Manuel Mora, Director of Water Transportation of the Ministry of Transportation, said, “With this meeting we consider that we have made considerable progress, because at the Central American level, Nicaragua is the only country that has a National Committee for Port Security.” (Radio La Primerisima, 4 March 2023)
65 New Homes for Families in 11 Municipalities
The government reported that during the week beginning with March 6, sixty-five new houses will be delivered to families in 11 municipalities including San Juan de Río Coco, Santa Lucía, Boaco, Wiwilí, El Coral, Villa Sandino, San Pedro de Lóvago, Muy Muy, San Ramón, Jalapa and Nueva Guinea. (Radio La Primerisima, 7 March 2023)
Nicaragua Enters Regional Stock Exchange
The Nicaragua Stock Exchange (BVN) and the Nicaragua Stock Market (CENIVAL) signed the “Incorporation of Nicaragua to the Central American Stock Market Agreement” on March 2. The Agreement formalizes the entry of Nicaragua to the regional stock market, creating an efficient and transparent space for stock trading among investors of member countries. Likewise, it will facilitate cross-border transactions through remote operators, eliminating geographic barriers and promote the modernization and growth of the Latin American capital market. The Central American Securities Market, comprised of El Salvador, Panama, and Nicaragua, offers investors an integrated market of US$54 billion dollars in outstanding securities, 346 issuers and 49 stock exchanges in the three member countries. (Nicaragua News, 3 March 2023)
President Ortega Highlights Fidel Castro’s Solidarity and Hugo Chavez’ Wisdom
President Daniel Ortega arrived in Venezuela on March 5th to pay tribute to the eternal commander of the Bolivarian Revolution, Hugo Chávez, on the tenth anniversary of his death. Upon his arrival, Ortega described the Venezuelan people as heroic fighters and said that being in these lands is “to feel the presence, the energy, the strength of Bolivar and of Commander Chavez, who are still present in the battle we are waging.”
At the world meeting entitled “Validity of Chávez’s Bolivarian Thought,” President Ortega, after speaking of Chavez’ values, highlighted Fidel Castro as a determining part of the victory of the Sandinista National Liberation Front over the US-backed Somoza dictatorship. “In that final phase of the war we counted on the solidarity of Fidel, our elder brother. Fidel is one of those men who never dies,” he emphasized. He recalled the hard times of the struggle against the Somoza National Guard whose forces were trained by the United States. “In Cuba Fidel gathered Latin Americans and told them that in Nicaragua Sandinismo was living a crucial and decisive moment.” Fidel asked those present who was willing to fight with Nicaragua; and with that “Latin American sisters and brothers, Chileans, Argentines, Cubans and Venezuelans, joined that solidarity battalion.” Ortega said that the victory was the result of the courage and the decision of the Nicaraguan people with Fidel’s support.
During the closing ceremony President Ortega highlighted Chávez’ values, vision, wisdom and defense of Latin American unity. He talked about Chavez’ political lucidity and revolutionary thinking and how that seed was sown in the Venezuelan people. He conveyed to those present the affection and love of the Nicaraguan people and asserted that they always have Chavez in their hearts. “Chavez and Fidel, we feel them as ours, they are part of our history, they are part of our life,” he underlined. Referring to the battles fought by the Venezuelan people, he said that their role was decisive in the reversal of the US-directed coup d’état against Chávez [in 2002]; and also for President Nicolás Maduro to be able to move forward in spite of aggressions, blockade and assassination attempts by the United States.
He added that now it is Nicolás Maduro’s turn to raise Bolivar’s sword, which Chávez handed over to him and which is in the hands of the Bolivarian people. Ortega emphasized that Bolivar’s sword is also in the hands of the Nicaraguans, who “fight for sovereignty, the unity of our peoples, for independence against the onslaught of imperialism.” “The enemy is the same one that historically has tried to subjugate other peoples, the one that continues to attack, the one that continues to provoke harsh situations for our peoples with blockades and terrorist aggressions.” See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/daniel-destaca-solidaridad-de-fidel-castro/ (Radio La Primerisima, 6 March 2023)
Nicaragua Does Not Accept the Experts Imposed by the UN
Nicaragua will not accept the unilateral designation of a group of United Nations-chosen experts to prepare any report on human rights in the country, saying that the group is biased and unilaterally imposed. On Mar. 6, the Nicaraguan delegation to the Human Rights Council formally stated before that forum that it has not accepted, nor will it accept, the designation by that body of a group of experts on Nicaragua, to prepare any report on human rights in the country. The Nicaraguan delegation indicated that they are convinced that group is nothing more than a curtain to pretend to a non-existent legality in the reports they are preparing on Nicaragua. The delegation reiterated that the inputs to these reports are from opposition sectors and media which disseminate subjective, distorted and false situations and false facts about the country’s reality; acting under the guidelines of imperial powers, whose only purpose is to harm Nicaragua’s independence and sovereignty, as well as to intervene in the nation.
The statement said that the recommendations of this group do not reflect the considerable advances in the most basic human rights such as education, health, women’s rights, electricity coverage, and poverty reduction that have been implemented in Nicaragua and that their recommendations lack objectivity and are even coercive. The Nicaraguan delegation asked this group of experts for respect and equal treatment. (Radio La Primerisima, 6 March 2023; TN8tv, 3 March 2023) [This article by Stephen Sefton explains more about what this Human Rights Council has and has not done, and the role of the United States: https://www.tortillaconsal.com/bitacora/node/1378] (TN8tv, 3 March 2023)
COSEP’s Legal Status Cancelled for Noncompliance with Laws
The Ministry of the Interior cancelled the legal personality of the Superior Council of Private Enterprise (COSEP) which it said had acted outside the laws of the country. The cancellation was approved by the Minister of the Interior, María Amelia Coronel, according to the ministerial agreement published on March 6 in the Official Gazette (La Gaceta). COSEP was granted legal personality by decree number 468, Gazette number 244 of December 26, 1991. The Ministry of Government argued that it closed COSEP and 17 other organizations for not having completed the process of validation of registration, presenting inconsistencies in the information like variations in accounts without justification, differences in balances without reports on the accounts, and non-reporting of details of income and expenses. With these actions, the announcement said, organizations do not promote policies of transparency in the administration and management of their funds; likewise they have not reported financial statements for the fiscal period 2022. To see the organizations canceled: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/cancelan-personeria-juridica-al-cosep-por-incumplir-leyes/ (Radio La Primerisima, 6 March 2023)
Briefs, March 2, 2023
Join the NicaNet Google Group
The NicaNet Google Group is a public forum for exchanging ideas and information among solidarity activists who are anti-imperialist and support Nicaragua’s sovereignty. All posts are approved by the moderator before publishing. Posts must be primarily about Nicaragua. (We are all aware of the many struggles within and outside Latin America. However, posts that are only obliquely about Nicaragua probably won’t be accepted.) To join: <https://groups.google.com/g/nicanet> To Post: <Nicanet@googlegroups.com>
Miguel D’Escoto Brockmann House of Sovereignty Inaugurated
On Feb. 23 the National Council of Universities (CNU) inaugurated the Miguel D’Escoto Brockmann House of Sovereignty, located in Managua. It will serve to strengthen the formation, values and principles of the people of Nicaragua, according to Professor Ramona Rodriguez Perez, president of the CNU and rector of the UNAN-Managua. She added, “Today we are here to officially declare open to Nicaraguans the House of Sovereignty inspired by the chancellor of peace and dignity Father Miguel D’Escoto Brockmann, an example of struggle for sovereignty and self-determination of the world’s peoples and for a more just and supportive life for all,” she said. “The House of Sovereignty is a space for study, training and research on our doctrine and practice of independence, sovereignty, dignity and national identity as key factors for the integral development of our people,” reflected the UNAN rector. (Radio La Primerisima, 23 Feb. 2023)
Nicaragua Re-elected Vice President of CEIRPP Committee
On Feb. 23 in New York, Nicaragua was re-elected Vice President of the United Nations Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People (CEIRPP). UN Secretary General António Guterres stated that “we salute the election of the new CEIRPP Board of Directors and maintain the commitment of the UN to work together to obtain a just and lasting peace for the Palestinian people. The recent escalation in violence against the Palestinian people is concerning; therefore it is imperative to demonstrate true political will to end the occupation and guarantee two independent, viable, and sovereign states that coexist in peace and respect the wellbeing of both populations.” Established in 1975, the CEIRPP defends the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to exercise their self-determination and sovereignty as well as the right of refugees to return through a just solution that results in the recognition of two states with secure and recognized borders. (Nicaragua News, 24 Feb. 2023)
Tripartite Commission Agrees on 10% Salary Increase
On Feb. 23, Minister of Labor Alba Luz Torres, trade union leaders, and private sector representatives agreed on a 10% percent increase in the minimum wage for ten economic sectors effective March 1. The leader of the CGTEN ANDEN (teacher’s union), Professor José Antonio Zepeda, emphasized that this agreement will allow workers to recover their purchasing power. “Obviously, for us as a union movement, this is always about prioritizing employment. This agreement follows that principle of tripartism, the principle through which our government establishes the active and direct participation of the workers in the decision-making process,” Zepeda added. Luis Barbosa, representative of the José Benito Escobar Workers Confederation, said that they are satisfied with the agreement since it generates stability for employers and employees. “We have accomplished the task jointly, union leaders, businesspeople, with the mediation of the Ministry of Labor in the case of free trade zones; so let’s move our country forward,” Barbosa said. (Radio La Primerisima, 23 Feb. 2023)
Agricultural Institute in Masaya will Serve 3,000 Students.
On Feb. 27, the National Technological Institute (INATEC) inaugurated the Monimbó Heróico Agricultural Technical Center which will serve more than 3,000 students. The classes will be taught daily or students can study on Saturday and/or Sunday. Loyda Barreda, executive director of INATEC, explained that the center has eight classrooms, two computer laboratories, and seven agroindustry laboratories for the processing of flour, cereals, fruits, vegetables, meat products, aquaculture, dairy products, animal feed and more.
The center will offer general technical classes on agriculture and livestock, agronomy, agroindustry, and animal husbandry, in addition to 15 courses related to the production of fruit pulp and nectar, sauces, dressings, liqueurs, among others. Monimbó Heróico is the third technological center at the service of the families of the Masaya department and is the first agricultural and livestock center promoting production, trade, and entrepreneurial and productive culture to generate more development opportunities. The government invested US$5.6 million in the Institute. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/monimbo-heroico-atendera-a-mas-de-3-mil-estudiantes-tecnicos-en-masaya/ (Radio La Primerisima, 27 Feb. 2023)
Students Affected by Hurricane to Receive Breakfast & Lunch
On Feb. 28, the government will launch a new program to reinforce the food supply in schools located in areas affected by hurricane Julia in October 2022. The students will have access to breakfasts and lunches during the whole week. Students around the country receive lunch five days a week. The students benefiting from the new program are in Chontales, Matagalpa, the North and South Caribbean Regions, Tola, Rivas and Central Zelaya. In related news, the Ministry of Education, in coordination with the National Council of Universities (CNU), will be giving full scholarships to high school students in the countryside who are academically excellent to study medicine, agronomy and engineering. (Radio La Primerisima, 27 Feb. 2023)
US Economic Crisis Affects Free Trade Zone Workers
The economic crisis in the United States and the war in Ukraine have impacted the Free Trade Zone textile sector forcing the temporary suspension of workers in two companies in Granada and Managua. The leader of the Confederation of Free Zone Workers, Pedro Ortega, said that, since September 2022, brands in the United States have reduced work orders in the textile industry due to inflation and the stagnant clothing trade. From January to date, some 1,500 workers have been suspended in two companies that manufacture pants. The workers have been paid their benefits in accordance with the law. “One company in Granada of Mexican capital suspended 600 workers for four months,” said Ortega. The other company, Rocedes S.A., of North American capital, suspended 1,200 workers. The companies expect that in about three months, probably by June, the situation could improve and the suspended workers would be rehired. (Radio La Primerisima, 23 Feb. 2023)
Malaria Cases Down Compared to 2022
The latest report on the epidemiological situation of the country up to February 26, highlighted a 7% decrease in cases of malaria compared to the previous week and a 43% decrease compared to the same period last year. Pneumonia cases decreased by 1% and deaths increased by 29% compared to the previous week, but with respect to last year there was a 67% decrease in deaths. During the past week there was a 1% increase in suspected cases of malaria with 48 confirmed cases detected, the same number of cases as the previous week. From the epidemiological point of view, this disease is at a plateau. The Ministry of Health report states that five positive cases of influenza were reported, the same number of cases compared to the previous week. Compared to this period last year, there has been an 85% decrease of positive cases. (Radio La Primerisima, 27 Feb. 2023)
Marathon Held in Honor of Heroes and Martyrs of Los Sabogales
On Feb. 26, more than 300 young people from the different municipalities of the department of Masaya participated in a marathon to commemorate the 45th anniversary of heroic actions of Monimbó in 1978. The route started at the San Jeronimo traffic circle and went through the streets of Masaya, concluding at the Museum of Camilo Ortega Saavedra. Prizes were awarded to the first three places. Young Daris Pérez, from Nindirí, won first place. Afterwards, hundreds of Sandinistas placed flowers at the mural of the Heroes and Martyrs of Los Sabogales, located at the Camilo Ortega Museum. On February 26, 1978, in Las Sabogales, Masaya, there was a massacre by the Somoza National Guard. “Long live the Sandinista Front!” could be heard in the midst of the machine gun fire. FSLN leader Camilo Ortega Saavedra, together with others in the struggle like Moisés Rivera and Arnoldo Quant, confronted the Somoza Guard special forces (EEBI) with few weapons. Hours later, wounded, they were captured, tortured and killed. Camilo Ortega is remembered as one of the FSLN leaders who worked for the unity of the three different tendencies of the FSLN – which occurred soon after. Camilo is known as the apostle of Unity. (Radio La Primerisima, 26 Feb. 2023)
Williamsport Little League Baseball Tournament Opens
More than 300 children and adolescents are participating in the Williamsport Little League, inaugurated on Feb. 25 by the Managua municipality. Deputy Mayor Enrique Armas said that the ball players are part of 12 sports academies in the capital. The tournament will be held for three months in Managua and in the departments. The national champions will represent Nicaragua in the Latin American championship to be held in Maracaibo, Venezuela, in July of this year. Last year, Nicaragua was the winner and played in the finals in Williamsport, Pennsylvania in August. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/inauguran-torneo-de-beisbol-infantil-williamsport/ (Radio La Primerisima, 26 Feb. 2023)
Briefs, February 23, 2023
Five Sandinistas Receive Award on the 89th Anniversary of Sandino’s Murder
The highest degree of the Order of Augusto C. Sandino was awarded to Sandinistas who represent the courage, ideals and sacred values of the struggles for freedom and national dignity. “Sandino lives and the struggle continues!” said Vice President Rosario Murillo at the beginning of the commemoration ceremony. She read the Presidential Decree where the order is given to the Sandinista militants: Guerrilla Commander Lumberto Campbell: leader and faithful combatant of the Sandinista cause in the Caribbean Coast, currently vice president of the Supreme Electoral Council. Ana Julia Guido Ochoa: guerrillera of unquestionable courage in all circumstances, today she is the Attorney General of the Republic. Orlando Tardencilla: Defender of the truths of Nicaragua in the most extreme situations. Brenda Rocha: guerrillera who serves as president of the Supreme Electoral Council. Alma Nubia Baltodano: fighter of great audacity, today magistrate of the Supreme Electoral Council. “These Sandinistas have known and know how to hold high the flags of our General Sandino, in fidelity, loyalty and love for Nicaragua.” The awards were made during the commemoration of the 89th anniversary of the assassination of Sandino, known as the General of Free Men and Women.
During his speech, Ortega said that, for the first time in the history of our country, in times of peace, with the “People President” exercising their rights, Nicaragua has opened the doors of education to all families, to all young people, even taking the university to the countryside. “And dear Nicaraguan families, I would say that today, the best tribute we can pay to our General Sandino, who is present in health, who is present in education, who is present in the construction of homes, who is present in the construction of roads, who is present in all the productive activities of this country, the best tribute we can pay to the General, is to tell him, General Augusto Calderón Sandino, we are fulfilling your dreams because you are embodied in us,” Ortega said. The president also talked about how important it is for all people to have good health care. He described what his parents went through, losing two children to easily preventable illnesses before he was born. (Radio La Primerisima, 21 Feb. 2023)
Walks to Commemorate Sandino
Hundreds of thousands of Nicaraguans participated in walks in more than 30 cities on Feb. 18 to commemorate the 89th anniversary of the “transit to immortality” of the national hero Augusto C. Sandino, known as the General of Free Men and Women. Waving the red and black flag, Sandinista militants in Managua walked for miles beginning at Hill 110 in District VII. The mayor of Managua, Reyna Rueda, highlighted the peace and harmony that is experienced in each walk. “We Nicaraguans are a people of peace, of faith and we are honoring our General of Free Men and Women who transmits sovereignty and dignity to the new generation.” Marching families spoke of how the government has made the dreams of the General of Free Men and Women come true, reflected in progress, development and prosperity. See Photos: https://www.tn8.tv/departamentos/caminata-en-honor-al-general-sandino-en-managua-matagalpa-y-masaya/ (Radio La Primerisima, 18 Feb. 2023)
Nicaragua Second Country in the Region to Have Universal Electricity Coverage
The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) is providing financial support for six projects in Nicaragua to provide better energy coverage, access and distribution. The National Sustainable Electrification and Renewable Energy Program (PNESER), which has been implemented in three phases, has so far brought electricity to more than 41,682 homes in rural communities and the construction of more than 21,000 kilometers of new distribution networks. The Sustainability Program for the electricity sector, with the construction of 3,000 kilometers of medium and low voltage power distribution lines, has enabled the electrification of 79,050 homes in 402 urban neighborhoods which now have supplies through more efficient and sustainable networks as well as modern meters.
Thanks to the programs financed by CABEI, it has been possible to modernize the Central America and Santa Barbara (known as Carlos Fonseca) Hydroelectric Plants. This consisted of modernizing their electromechanical equipment and control centers, incorporating state-of-the-art technology and a real-time monitoring system for the hydroelectric plants which adds 100 megawatts to the capacity of the annual energy generation of the National Interconnected System (SIN). This represents a guaranteed 12.5% increase in generation from this source. Managua has benefited from the construction of the central substation, responding to the growth in energy demand for the benefit of 142,987 people.
As a result of these actions and others supported by CABEI, Nicaragua has become the second country in the Central American region to achieve universal electricity coverage. CABEI Executive President, Dr. Dante Mossi stated, “Electricity in rural communities activates their economies. A family with livestock but without energy cannot preserve their products or give them added value, but with a constant energy service it is possible. It is gratifying for us to know that, through the solid execution of projects, the quality of life of Nicaraguans is improving, as well as the country’s competitiveness through the development of various economic projects.” (Radio La Primerisima, 20 Feb. 2023)
Guaranteeing Health Care for Seniors
The Ministry of Health announced the start of construction of the “Don Porfirio García” Senior Citizens Medical Care Center in Managua. The US$18.21 million-dollar project includes installation of diagnostic equipment, specialized care, and clinical management for people with chronic diseases and/or disabilities, early detection and care of cancer, as well as installation and equipping of clinics to attend five specialties. Health Minister Martha Reyes stated that “The Center will guarantee specialized, free and quality medical care for 55,000 seniors who are part of the National Unit for Senior Citizens and is the next step in the National Elderly Special Care Plan that is being implemented starting this year.” Financing is provided by the General Budget and will be fully operational in the first semester of this year. (Nicaragua News, 21 Feb. 2023)
Strengthening Surveillance to Detect Bird Flu
The Nicaragua Institute of Agricultural Protection and Health Safety (IPSA) and the National Association of Poultry Farmers and Food Producers (ANAPA) presented a report on Feb. 14 with the results of the Project to Strengthen Epidemiological Surveillance Systems for the Prevention of the H5N1 virus (bird flu). IPSA Director Ricardo Somarriba stated that “on December 22, 2022, Nicaragua received an international alert about an outbreak of bird flu in the region and, in response, IPSA and ANAPA began to implement the Project to Strengthen Epidemiological Surveillance Systems for the Prevention of Bird Flu which has allowed Nicaragua to maintain a healthy poultry sector, guaranteeing safe and quality food for consumption.
Somarriba explained that two mobile laboratories have been acquired and two emergency health laboratories are being built focused on the avian influenza line. And other necessary equipment is also available, such as disposable suits. Two 40 feet incinerators have been acquired as well as other mobile ones for when a possible emergency occurs. Somarriba said that the population understands: If a bird dies, they have links that communicate with the technicians who arrive in real time to take a sample and later bring it to the central laboratory. (Nicaragua News, 17 Feb. 2023, Radio La Primerisima, 20 Feb. 2023)
Growth in Production of Eggs and Poultry
President of the National Association of Poultry Farmers and Food Producers (ANAPA) Alfredo Vélez reported on Feb. 15 that 34 million cartons of eggs were produced in 2022, representing 4.8% growth compared to 2021. Likewise, 340 million pounds of chicken meat were produced, a 7% growth over 2022. “The results obtained reflect the sustained growth of the sector.” (Nicaragua News, 16 Feb. 2023)
Esquipulas-San Dionisio Highway in Matagalpa Inaugurated
The new Esquipulas–San Dionisio highway in Matagalpa department was inaugurated on Feb. 14. MTI Minister Oscar Mojica stated that “the new highway is a vital communication link that will guarantee safe and agile land transportation for the agricultural sector which is essential to the economy of the area.” The US$9 million-dollar project was financed through the General Budget benefiting 37,150 inhabitants. (Nicaragua News, 15 Feb. 2023)
900,000 Trees Planted in 3 Months
According to the official report, 915,506 trees have been planted for a 91% compliance with the goal programmed in the first stage of the reforestation and nature protection campaign “Verde, que te quiero Verde” (Green, I love you Green) campaign. Reforestation and restoration with forest and fruit species has taken place in the departments of Boaco, Carazo, Chontales, Estelí, Jinotega, Las Minas, León, Madriz, Managua, Masaya, Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, Costa Caribe Norte, Costa Caribe Sur, Río San Juan, Rivas and Zelaya Central. Likewise, 804 community nurseries have been created in the departments of Boaco, Carazo, Chinandega, Chontales, Estelí, Jinotega, Las Minas, León, Managua, Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, Costa Caribe, Río San Juan, Rivas and Central Zelaya. See fotos and map: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/novecientos-mil-arboles-sembrados-en-los-ultimos-3-meses/ (Radio La Primerisima, 19 Feb. 2023)
Guide to Events of Lent and Holy Week Published
The Institute of Culture published the second edition of the atlas “Festivities of Lent and Holy Week,” explained Institute of Culture Director Luis Morales. The atlas gathers the main artistic traditions that the communities carry out during this season. “The smells and aromas of flowers and fruits, the devotion of our prayers, the representation of the life, passion and death of Jesus, the music, the songs, the rites and worship so sacred for our people have been enriched with artistic creativity and the values of our ancestral memory,” Morales said. The atlas was produced with the support of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO. It is available here. (Radio La Primerisima, 20 Feb. 2023)
94 Individuals Declared Traitors
The presiding magistrate of the Court of Appeals of the Managua District, Dr. Ernesto Rodríguez Mejía, announced on February 15, the resolutions issued against 94 defendants who were declared traitors to Nicaragua. The 94 individuals lose their citizenship rights and their Nicaraguan nationality. Pursuant to Law number 1055, Law for the Defense of the People’s Rights to Independence, Sovereignty and Self-Determination for Peace, the 94 accused were declared traitors. Pursuant to article 2 of Law number 1145, Special Law that regulates the loss of Nicaraguan nationality, all defendants were ordered to lose their nationality. In accordance with articles 112 and 113 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Nicaragua and the aforementioned laws, the immobilization and confiscation in favor of the State of Nicaragua of all real estate and companies that the defendants have registered in their favor, either personally or as legal persons or companies in which they participate as partners, to answer for the crimes committed, was ordered. The 94 defendants were also declared fugitives from justice. “All of the above [is declared] with the purpose of guaranteeing social peace, legal security, independence, sovereignty, self-determination of the State of Nicaragua, and especially to guarantee the protection of the Nicaraguan society,” says the resolution read by the presiding magistrate of the Court of Appeals. Auxiliadora Martínez, chair of the Justice Committee of the National Assembly, explained that Nicaragua has a solid legal framework, which was recently reinforced with the creation of a special law to withdraw the nationality of all those convicted of treason. “They are traitors because they committed acts of terrorism; they have gone to the US to ask for economic sanctions against the country; they have committed serious crimes and the laws must be applied,” stated Martinez. [The laws in the United States, the United Kingdom and other nations permit revocation of citizenship for an “act of treason.” The UK has taken away citizenship from some 450 people since 2006.] (Radio La Primerisima, 16 Feb. 2023)
President Ortega Talks about the Catholic Church
Excerpts from President Daniel Ortega’s speech on Feb. 21: The Army in Defense of National Sovereignty was able to defeat the Yankees and expel them. The Yankees were defeated here in Nicaragua with that telluric force that the Nicaraguan people have, which is a force that is born, because it comes from the roots of our Identity, which comes from our Indigenous ancestors. Darío and Sandino also said that they were proud that Indigenous blood ran in their veins. Because it is true, [the story about] the struggle and resistance of our Indigenous ancestors. I never tire of mentioning Diriangén, among other brave Caciques, like Nicarao, facing the invaders.
Then, when they [the Spanish Conquerors] took away the language of our ancestors, our culture, they imposed a regime that allowed them to dominate, using religion as an instrument. The Indigenous population, our ancestors, our great-great-grandparents had their gods, but they [the Spanish] did not respect them. They had their languages, but they did not respect them, and they came with the cross and the sword.
And who can deny that the Catholic Church, the Vatican was an accomplice to all these crimes! Why? Because they sent the priests and gave the kings the right to decide over these lands, to decide over the populations, how to divide up the lands that were not theirs, how to divide up the populations and subject them in what they called the encomiendas into real slaves. With what right? Ah, with the blessing of the popes and the kings.
Ah, if we go through the history of the popes and kings, [we find a history] of crimes, of persecution, of burning those who did not think like them. They burned Joan of Arc, a true heroine. And how many scientists, how many people who were contributing? They also burned them. And they were allies of Nazism and Fascism; in World War II the Papacy gave full support to Mussolini, a major criminal, who was Hitler’s main ally in Europe. And the Papacy [supported] Mussolini. ….
No! They have not complied with the principle of representing God, much less of representing Christ. Christ was never arrogant. Christ was never aggressive. Christ was always in solidarity. His Message was one of peace! And then they tortured him, tortured him, tortured him, tortured him, and killed him. But Christ did not die. They physically killed Him on the Cross. But Christ rose again in the people, and he lives in the Christian people, not by the example that the priests, the bishops, the cardinals and the popes, who are a mafia, can give them.
Look at the crimes they have committed and crimes are still coming out every day and they are being judged. They commit crimes for having absurd regulations, crimes in the financial field. There are some trials right now in the Vatican for those who have embezzled millions, because they have always managed millions.
What respect can I have for the bishops in Nicaragua, if they were Somocistas! I was a child when Somoza Garcia’s funeral took place, I was with my father, I was with my brothers, with my mother, watching the funeral, and there were the bishops burying Somoza as Prince of the Church. That is to say, as if he was a cardinal of the Church, simply because Somoza was a henchman who gave everything they needed to the Church. And he was a servant, an agent, an instrument of Yankee Imperialism so they gave him that [special] treatment.
But the inner strength that I have had all these years to survive, I owe to Christ, for what? To serve the people, the poor, the peasants, the workers, I owe it to Christ and it is Christ that I have always carried in my heart!
Of course, and it is good to read, to know economics. It is necessary, but to put economics into practice there has to be a principle. It cannot be capitalism, because capitalism makes the rich richer and the poor poorer. It has to be the practice of solidarity, the distribution of wealth, Socialism, that is Christianity and that is what we Nicaraguans defend and what the Sandinista National Liberation Front defends.
I was formed in Catholicism. But since I was a child, well, I was baptized, I made my First Communion, I was confirmed, but I never had affection nor respect for the majority of Priests and Religious, with exceptions. There are always exceptions, we know, like Father Gaspar García Laviana who came from Spain to give his life for Nicaragua. There are exceptions! Like the priests who were killed by Somoza’s Guard in Estelí. ….
Well, what remained in my soul, in my heart, was Christ. From the first moment I read, that I met Christ, he was my inspiration. He was the force that drove me to study, to understand the complexities in which we lived, the poverty in which we lived. Then, as time went by, seeing the injustices … then I became aware of solidarity with the poor, with the people, with the oppressed.…
And what inspired me to gain that consciousness? Christ! Yes, Christ! Let us remember that Christ never went around dressed as the bishops dress…. Christ was born poor; he lived poor; he was an example of humility and that is why they killed him.
…. Dear Brothers and Sisters, they say that I am a communist, and I have already said this on other occasions when I have been asked, since the 80’s when I was asked, I have always insisted: I am a revolutionary thanks to Christ; because of Christ I became a revolutionary. And then, being a revolutionary, I got to know the revolutionary thought in the world. I got to know Marx; I got to know Engels. I got to know the revolutions in the world where they were fighting for the poor. (Tortilla con Sal, 22 Feb. 2023)
Briefs, February 16, 2023
This is an Emergency!
Alliance for Global Justice and its fiscally-sponsored projects like the Nicaragua Solidarity Fund are under attack by right-wing media. They have convinced the company that handles our credit card donations to block AfGJ and its projects from use of a critical fundraising tool – online donations. As of this writing AfGJ cannot accept credit card donations – and neither can the 140 organizations that rely on the AfGJ to provide them with fiscal sponsorship.
We have to resort to old-fashioned techniques, and we need your solidarity:
- Paper checks, mailed to AfGJ, 225 E. 26th St., Tucson, AZ 85713. In this case you would write Nicaragua Solidarity Fund in the memo line.
- A phone tree that can be used to mobilize supporters when attacks occur. We are looking for supporters such as you to join that phone tree. Please send us your name and phone number, and let us know that you’d like to participate. (Please send to info@afgj.org.)
- Spread the word! Use whatever platforms you have at your disposal – including word of mouth.
222 Convicts Deported to the United States with the State Department
At a press conference on Feb. 9 in the Judicial Complex of Managua, the deportation, in collaboration with the US Department of State, of 222 prisoners convicted of treason and other crimes was announced. “In accordance [with the] Law for the Defense of the Rights of the People, Independence, Sovereignty and Self-Determination … the immediate and effective deportation of 222 persons is ordered.” The announcement went on to say that “the persons have already been deported from the country, for which the respective official letters have been sent,” [A plane sent by the US State Department flew them out early on Feb. 9th to Dulles Airport outside Washington, DC]. “The deportees were declared traitors and punished for different serious crimes and disqualified perpetually from exercising public functions in the service of the state, or positions of popular election, as their citizenship rights are perpetually suspended.” [Editor’s note: The new law under which Nicaraguans can lose their citizenship because of treasonous acts is very similar to US Code 1481 under which a citizen can lose their US citizenship by “(7) committing any act of treason against, or attempting by force to overthrow, or bearing arms against, the United States, … by engaging in a conspiracy to overthrow, put down, or to destroy by force the Government of the United States, or to levy war against them, if and when he is convicted thereof by a court martial or by a court of competent jurisdiction.] (TN8.tv, 9 Feb. 2023)
Nicaraguans March to Celebrate Government’s Decision
The Nicaraguan people in at least 30 cities marched and gathered to support the decision of the justice system to perpetually suspend the nationality of 222 people convicted of treason, who were deported to the US. “The sovereignty of a people is not discussed, it is defended with weapons in hand and it is defended with the vindication of the social rights of the people,” stated Carlos Espinoza, from the Worker’s Central. In Managua, thousands of people walked for hours, chanting slogans like “Sovereignty is not up for discussion.” When they reached their destination on Bolivar Avenue near the Chavez circle the atmosphere was festive with a music group performing revolutionary music. “This afternoon we are celebrating that all those traitors are gone; we do not want them here.” said María Luisa Pérez. Luis Martínez pointed out that he supports this revolutionary process saying, “It has brought love, peace and progress for the benefit of the poorest and neediest people.” There were similar marches and activities in Masaya, Bilwi, Bluefields, Jinotega, Matagalpa, Rosita, Bonanza, Siuna, Jinotepe, Prinzapolka, Mulukukú, Paiwas, Boaco, to name a few. See photos: HERE and HERE (TN8tv, 11 Feb. 2023)
New Port Complex in Puerto Sandino
The National Port Authority (EPN) inaugurated the new port complex in Puerto Sandino, León Department, on Feb. 10. EPN President Virgilio Silva stated that “The US$64 million project seeks to improve services for importers and exporters through modernization of equipment and technological innovation, offering companies greater fluidity and quality of service.” (Nicaragua News, 14 Feb. 2023)
New Solar Panel Systems in Two Communities
The National Electricity Transmission Company inaugurated a 305-solar panel system in Las Barandas community of Siuna, North Caribbean Autonomous Region benefiting 1,571 inhabitants. The US$653,000 project was funded by the general budget. A 348-solar panel electrical system for three communities of El Castillo municipality, Río San Juan Department, benefiting 1,831 inhabitants was also inaugurated. The US$777,658 funding was provided by the General Budget with support from the Export and Import Bank of South Korea. Both projects are part of the Supply and Installation of Solar Panels in Rural Areas Project of the National Program for Sustainable Electrification and Renewable Energy that the Government is implementing. (Nicaragua News, 9 Feb. and 14 Feb. 2023)
Nicaragua Second-Safest Country in the Americas
A study published Feb. 8 by the US magazine Insight Crime entitled “2022 Homicide Roundup” on Latin America and the Caribbean reports that, with a homicide rate of 6.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, Nicaragua continues to be the country in Central America with the lowest rate and with the second lowest rate in Latin America, surpassed only by Chile. (Nicaragua News, 13 Feb. 2023)
Strengthening Food Sovereignty through Family Gardens
The Ministry of Family Economy published a report on advances of the Healthy Garden Program which states that 107,836 plants, including fruit, vegetables, roots, tubers, and medicinals were delivered to 2,799 small producers in 2022 to establish 1,958 family gardens in the 153 municipalities of the country. The Healthy Garden Program is part of the Creative Economy Model being implemented to strengthen food security. (Nicaragua News, 13 Feb. 2022)
165th Fire Station in San Francisco del Norte
The inhabitants of San Francisco del Norte, Department of Chinandega, now feel safer thanks to the construction of a new fire station. The station has 11 employees who will be able to attend to emergencies such as gas leaks, short circuits, pre-hospital care, animal rescue, forest and home fires. Daniel Vado, director of the Fire Fighters’ Academy, said, “The Fire Station is part of the strategy to grow in infrastructure and personnel. It is an important part of the vision of the government to make Nicaragua safer, to protect life, material goods and serve the people 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.” This is the 165th station built and equipped in the country. See photos: https://www.tn8.tv/departamentos/la-estacion-de-bomberos-no-165-esta-en-san-francisco-del-norte-chinandega/ (TN8tv, 14 Feb. 2023)
Nicaragua Expels Italian Priest Wanted by INTERPOL for Sex Crimes
On February 14, the Ministry of the Interior of Nicaragua (MIGOB) reported that INTERPOL Italy requested the flight itinerary of the Italian priest Cosimo Damiano Muratori, who is wanted in Italy for the crime of sexual violence. He was sentenced to four years and six months in prison in the city of Perugia, Italy, in November 2019. In 2014, he was assigned to Nicaragua by his order, despite his crimes. (Canal4.com.ni, 14 Feb. 2023)
Briefs, February 9, 2023
Message for People Who Donate to the Nicaragua Solidarity Fund
The Alliance for Global Justice (AFGJ) is confronting a serious attack from the far-right in reaction to fiscally sponsoring organizers who are peacefully advocating for the liberation of the Palestinian people. The AfGJ says in a statement, “The charges against us have been rejected for years, including in late 2021 when we were temporarily affected by the same bogus charge that we were ‘funding terrorism.’ For the time being, we are unable to process online donations. Our credit card merchant processor, Card Connect, abruptly ended our contract. We were made aware of these changes on January 26th. We are working on securing an alternate merchant processor, working with our lawyer to fight the accusations and Card Connect’s decision to terminate our contract, and notifying our base of this escalated assault from the ultra-right. What can you do at this moment?”
If you are a donor to the Nicaragua Solidarity Fund please send paper checks. Here are the instructions: All checks should be made out to ‘Alliance for Global Justice’ or ‘AfGJ’. Please indicate the name of the fiscally-sponsored organization in the memo line (in this case Nicaragua Solidarity Fund). Send checks to: Nicaragua Solidarity Fund c/o Alliance for Global Justice, 225 E 26th St., Suite 1, Tucson, AZ 85713
One-hour Webinar with Camilo Mejia from Feb. 5th – Youtube video
You can watch the video recording of our Feb. 5th webinar here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dDw5Ec8qes&ab_channel=LatinAmericaSolidarityCoalitionofWesternMass
Delegation Opportunity: March Coffee and Cooperatives Brigade
Where: Managua, Chinandega & Estelí, Nicaragua
When: 11-19 March 2023
Cost: $850 per person for all-inclusive brigade
For detailed information: https://www.casabenjaminlinder.org/tours
Application deadline: 10 February 2023
Description:
Where does your coffee come from? Join us to follow your organic coffee’s journey from crop to cup! We’ll visit the beautiful El Porvenir Coffee Co-op, meet the farmers and their families, watch the coffee processing and participate in the selection process. We will learn how cooperatives fit into Nicaragua’s unusual economic model, and hear about the country’s pro-cooperative policies. We will meet all kinds of co-ops – bus & taxi, coffee, cigar-making and ceramics. We will talk with women worker-owners about their co-ops and get a chance to see Nicaragua’s natural beauty.
Strong Investment in Schools
The Ministry of Education presented a Report on the School Infrastructure Investment Plan implemented by the government. The report states that US$213.3 million has been invested in construction, rehabilitation and equipping of 6,111 schools between 2007 and 2022, restoring the right to free and quality education for the 1.8 million students of the country. Minister of Education Lilliam Herrera stated that “MINED plans to invest US$27.4 million in school infrastructure in 2023, guaranteeing spaces with optimal conditions for learning, safety and comfort.” (Nicaragua News, 3 Feb. 2023)
Thousands of Schools Equipped with Technology
The Ministry of Education presented a report on the Plan to Teach/Learn through Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Classrooms which states that 7,322 schools have been equipped with ICT classrooms over the last seven years, guaranteeing comprehensive education through access to technological tools. Education Advisor Tamara López stated that “this allows teachers to formulate academic plans that are more dynamic and interesting, fostering curiosity and a desire to learn in students. It is important that students have full access to technology and that they feel capable of competing in a world that is increasingly dependent on technology.” (Nicaragua News, 7 Feb. 2023)
Greater Use of Renewables in January
The National Center for Electricity Dispatch reported that 79% of electricity generated between January 1 and 22, 2023, came from renewable sources: 19% biomass, 18.7% wind, 14% geothermal, 13 hydroelectric, 0.47% solar, and 13.73% regional renewable energy imports. (Nicaragua News, 3 Feb. 2023)
Guaranteeing the Health of People over 60
The Ministry of Health and the Social Security Institute (INSS) launched the National Elderly Special Care Plan on Jan. 31 which will strengthen and guarantee access to healthcare for all people over 60 years of age. MINSA Secretary General, Carlos Sáenz detailed that “under the plan a nutritional census of the elderly will be carried out during the year; house-to-house visits every 3 months; scheduling of medical check-ups or surgeries; specialized care and clinical management for people with chronic diseases and/or disabilities; detection and early care for cancer, as well as psychological care to guarantee a good state of mental health among the elderly.” This Plan is part of the successful Family and Community Healthcare Model implemented by the government. (Nicaragua News, 2 Feb. 2023)
Strengthening Diagnosis and Treatment
To strengthen its diagnostic and treatment capabilities, the Ministry of Health delivered portable ultrasound machines, EKG’s, ventilators, thermal cribs, x-rays, nebulizers, and medication refrigerators to eight hospitals. The US$1.37 million for the purchase of the equipment was provided by the General Budget. (Nicaragua News, 2 Feb. 2023)
Reduction of Housing Deficit
The Nicaragua Institute for Urban and Rural Housing (INVUR) presented a report on the “Casas para el Pueblo” [Houses for the People] Low-Cost Housing Program that the Government is implementing. Some 4,300 homes were built in 2022, for a cumulative total of 130,676 low-cost homes built over the last 15 years, contributing to a reduction of the housing shortage. INVUR Codirector, Gabriela Palacios, stated that “INVUR plans to build 7,400 homes in 2023 to contribute to the goal of 50,000 low-income homes built by 2026.” (Nicaragua News, 1 Feb. 2023)
New Cigar Factory to Create 200 Jobs
The Villiger Nicaragua Cigar Company is investing US$2 million to build and equip a new cigar factory in Estelí creating 200 new jobs. The Manager of the Swiss-German company, Henry Villiger stated that “construction of the factory is part of our expansion plans with the certainty that it will be a lucrative investment and will guarantee decent jobs.” Villiger opened another factory in Nicaragua in 2021. (Nicaragua News, 2 Feb. 2023; https://tobaccobusiness.com/villiger-cigars-opens-new-nicaraguan-factory/)
Production of Cocoa Increased in 2022
The Nicaragua System of Production, Consumption and Commerce reported that the 2022-2023 cocoa harvest was 212,562 quintals, 20% growth over the previous agricultural cycle. Export of fine cocoa in 2022 represented US$22 million in sales, a 12% increase over 2021. (Nicaragua News, 2 Feb. 2023)
Unemployment and Underemployment Decreasing
The Nicaragua Institute for Development Information published the Employment Survey Report for December 2022 which states that the unemployment rate was 2.6%, a reduction of 0.9% compared to the same month in 2021. The underemployment rate was 38.3% in December, 4.1% less than Dec. 2021. (Nicaragua News, 1 Feb. 2023)
Priests Sentenced for Conspiracy and Propagation of False News
Priests Ramiro Tijerino, José Luis Díaz, Sadiel Eugarrios Cano and Raúl Antonio Vega and seminarians Darvin Leiva Mendoza and Melkin Centeno were sentenced to 10 years in prison for the crimes of undermining national integrity and propagating false news, breaking the laws of Nicaragua. The Second Criminal District Trial Judge, Nadia Tardencilla, also convicted Sergio Cadena Flores, found guilty of the same crimes. The judge sentenced the accused to five years in prison for the crime of conspiracy to undermine national integrity and five years in prison for propagation of false news. (Radio La Primerisima, 7 Feb. 2023)
Ministry of the Interior Cancels 17 Non-Profit Organizations
In January, the Ministry of the Interior cancelled the registration of 17 non-governmental organizations. The organizations failed to comply with the law, not reporting financial statements, allowing boards of directors to expire and other violations. Among the organizations whose legal status was cancelled is the Association of Private Banks of Nicaragua (ASOBAMP), which failed to comply with the law: The term of its board of directors had expired (in April of 2020) and it had not reported its financial statements since the 2019-2020 period. According to the media outlet Confidencial, some observers think that the bankers “let ASOBANP die” by not updating its Board of Directors since 2020. A source told Confidencial, “I never understood that Asobanp was so functional…. It seems to me that there was a kind of abandonment.”
Other organizations cancelled are Asociación Casa Xalteva, Fundación A.MAR.TE, Asociación de Jubilados del Departamento de León (Asojudel), Asociación Centroamericana de Criadores de Caballos de Raza Iberoamericano (Iberonic), Asociación de Comerciantes del Mercado Central (Acomercen), the Nicaraguan Association of Lawyers and Notaries (Anayn), the Association for the Development of Santo Tomás del Norte (Asodesn), the Association of Chronic Renal Insufficiency Patients Nueva Esperanza (Asociación Adedircne), the Abundant Love Foundation (FAA) and the Association of Women Mayors of Nicaragua, Asociación Fondo Histórico Documental de la Música Nicaragüense (Fonmunic), Asociación Dimensiones del Desarrollo (Dides), Asociación de Desmovilizados del S.M.P. de Nicaragua Esperanza y Reconciliación, Asociación Civil Cihualcoalt para el Desarrollo Integral Socio Económico (Asocideis), Club Veinte-Treinta de Managua and Fundación Isla (FIS). (Confidencial, 3 Feb. 2023)
No More Imperialist Domination in the World:
Excerpts from a speech by President Ortega and an announcement from the Iranian Foreign Minister
On Feb. 1, speaking at a gathering to honor a delegation from Iran led by Foreign Minister Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahián, President Daniel Ortega said that these are times of struggle for the sovereignty of the world’s peoples and for peace, and that there is certainty and conviction that imperialist domination cannot continue in the world. “We are facing the same enemy that you faced and defeated with the Iranian Revolution in 1979,” said the president. “It is the same [enemy] we faced here in Nicaragua and defeated in 1979,” he added. “And the enemies of peace as we well know want to continue maintaining imperialist … colonialist, neocolonialist policies, not only in what they call the backyard of the United States, which is Latin America and the Caribbean, but in the world; for them, the world is their backyard,” he said. “How many wars, how many aggressions, how many crimes have been committed against the people by the imperialists of the earth?” he asked. The president said that the empires installed slavery in the name of democracy and occupied entire nations. And the peoples rebelled; they were becoming independent, he said, but the empire has continued to insist on its hegemonic policy.
Ortega went on to say, “We saw the latest acts of [US] terrorism there in Iran, launching drone attacks on security points and defying the will for peace of Iran and the peoples of the world. We welcome you on this day that marks the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazism at Stalingrad. That heroic people, the Soviet people, resisted all the machinery of the Nazi forces.” He added that also on a day like today a very dear brother of the Latin American peoples and of the people of Iran took office as President of the Republic of Venezuela, Commander Hugo Chavez.
“The meeting that recently took place in the Republic of Argentina with CELAC was a meeting for life and there we were talking about the people of nations and states that are committed to defend Latin American and Caribbean region as a region for peace. Meanwhile, the so-called Western democracies, the United States and Europe, continue their terrorist campaigns against the people. We are well aware of the threats, aggressions and sanctions against the people of Iran,” he said. President Ortega said that the Secretary General of the United Nations is an instrument of imperialist policy and he referred to the UN Human Rights organisms in the same terms.
“We continue in the battle that calls for the unity of our peoples and our regions, and we have the certainty that the future is already defined, that imperialist domination can no longer exist in the world,” he said.
Ortega explained that Nicaragua is a nation with a very small territory, but installed in a strategic point, in the center of the Americas. He criticized the aggressiveness of the Yankee empire for attacking and attempting to take over Nicaragua. In this regard, he explained that “their intention was to take over our territory to install a canal. That explains the invasions,” he said.
The leader expressed his solidarity with the Bolivian people, where they are suffering attacks, and also with the Peruvian people, where the oligarchy, managed by the empire, has fueled a coup d’état against President Pedro Castillo. “In the midst of all these dramatic situations there are new winds that bring us more strength to continue fighting for sovereignty, for the unity of our peoples and for peace,” he said.
During the visit of the delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, a Memorandum of Understanding on the Mechanism of Cooperation and Political Consultations between the two countries was signed. The Iranian Foreign Minister stated that they are planning a future visit of the President of that Islamic nation, Ebrahim Raisi, to the Latin American region, including the friendly country of Nicaragua. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/noticias-generales/destacado/dominio-imperialista-ya-no-podra-ser-mas-en-el-mundo/ (Radio La Primerisima, 2 Feb. 2023)
Briefs, February 2, 2023
Nicaragua Has Highest Percentage of Fully Vaccinated People in Region
On Jan. 24, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reported that with 93.6% of the population fully vaccinated against COVID-19, Nicaragua is the country in Central America with the highest percentage of fully vaccinated population, followed by Costa Rica (84%); Panama (72.3%); El Salvador (67.2%); Honduras (57.4%); Guatemala (38.7%). [Fully vaccinated usually means a person has received their primary series of Covid-19 vaccines.] (Nicaragua News, 25 Jan. 2023)
Military Hospital Only Hospital in Latin America to Receive These Three Awards
On Jan. 30 the organization Accreditation Canada announced that the Dr. Alejandro Dávila Bolaños Military Teaching Hospital for the fourth year in a row maintains the “Diamond” or highest level of accreditation. It will also receive the “Excellence in the dimension of quality in safety” Award for the third year in a row and for the first time the “People-Centered Care Commitment” prize, consolidating its position as the only hospital in Latin America and the Caribbean and only the second in the world, to receive these three levels of accreditation. Dr. Jodie Taylor, Director of Accreditation Canada, congratulated the Military Hospital for the excellent results obtained on its evaluation. “These exceptional achievements by the Military Hospital reflect the commitment of the personnel and the Nicaragua military to guarantee quality service for patients. We join you in celebrating these successes and hope you will continue to diligently pursue quality to maintain this high standard.” Accreditation Canada is an organization that rigorously and objectively validates compliance with international standards in health services. [Note: The Military Hospital serves military members and veterans along with patients under Social Security and others.] (Nicaragua News, 31 Jan. 2023; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6Rek8ZK86Y)
24 Remodeled and Expanded Schools
The Ministry of Education inaugurated 24 improved schools at the beginning of 2023, which will improve learning environments for students and teachers. The rehabilitated and expanded schools are located in Nueva Segovia, Madriz, Río San Juan, Chinandega, Estelí, Zelaya Central, Las Minas, Boaco, León, Carazo, and Chontales. The investment of US$2.85 million included construction and rehabilitation of classrooms, storage units for the food for school meals, administrative offices, and libraries as well as water and sanitation works, installation of playground equipment, desks, acrylic blackboards and more. See photos here: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/noticias-generales/generales/inauguran-24-escuelas-en-inicio-del-2023/ (Radio La Primerisima, 28 Jan. 2023)
President Ortega Condemns Coup in Peru
President Daniel Ortega said on Jan. 31 that in Peru terror and death have been sown, simply because the people decided to elect a president of peasant origin. “A teacher of peasant origin … a humble man, they elected him. Then in the Congress they began to figure out how to overthrow him and he tried to seek agreement, even firing comrades of the movement that had led him to the presidency because Congress was demanding he fire them. Simply put, there is class hatred,” he said. “They don’t want to see … a humble teacher as the president. They began to make war, war and more war, until they carried out a coup d’état, and President Pedro Castillo, teacher from the countryside, a simple person, humble, was jailed. They have him in jail, but the people have risen up and have been fighting every day, the peasants, the workers, the teachers, all fighting. [The coup government] has already murdered 60 people in the streets, and what do the Yankees say, what do the Europeans say? There is no condemnation of the crimes that are being committed against these people, there are no human rights [organizations] that speak in favor of these people who are being murdered – who in spite of the bullets raining down on them, continue fighting and are demanding the dissolution of the Congress. Because it was the Congress that carried out the coup d’état together with the military against President Pedro Castillo, legitimate president of the sister Republic of Peru.” (Radio La Primerisima, 31 Jan. 2023)
CABEI Report on Support for Education
The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) reported on advances of the educational component of the Multisectoral Program for Economic Reactivation and Social Protection (NIC-Solidaria). It stated that the US$15.4 million educational component of the Program is rehabilitating, expanding, and equipping 14 schools benefitting 5,860 students and it also supports the school meal program guaranteeing 1.2 million daily rations of food to students. CABEI President Dante Mossi said that, “Aware of the importance of integral education of children and adolescents for the development of societies, CABEI is prioritizing initiatives that, in addition to providing better conditions to receive classes, can also strengthen their knowledge, increase food security and improve their cognitive and physical development, incentivizing them to complete their basic education.” (Nicaragua News, 27 Feb. 2023)
More than US$63 Million Loaned to Women in 2022 for Their Enterprises
The Director of the Government microloan Zero Usury Program, Leonor Corea, reported that in 2022, US$63.15 million was provided to 155,000 women to install or expand small businesses in the country’s 153 municipalities, promoting women’s entrepreneurship and contribution to the revitalization of the economy.” The Zero Usury Program is part of the Plan to Strengthen Productive and Organizational Capabilities of the Creative Economy Model that the government is implementing in support of female entrepreneurship. (Nicaragua News, 31 Jan. 2023)
International Bank Account Structure Implemented
On Jan. 25 the Central Bank announced that starting this week, the standardized bank account structure based on the International Bank Account Code (IBAN) will be implemented in Nicaragua. “The Board of Directors of the Central Bank and the private banks of the National Financial System have established a standardized system for bank accounts made up of 28 alphanumeric characters that will allow uniform identification of accounts nationally and internationally, as well as the receipt of payments, deposits and remittances through the Interconnected Payments System that recognizes the IBAN structure, facilitating financial transactions between countries.” (Nicaragua News, 27 Feb. 2023)
Credit Line Reinstated for Small Businesses Affected by the Pandemic
In support of economic reactivation of micro, small and medium-scale businesses (MSME’s) affected by the pandemic, the Nicaragua Finance Bank (BDF) and the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO) announced the renewal of the global credit line contract for US$10 million. The credit line is part of the Program for Financial Support and Technical Assistance for MSME’s affected by the health crisis. (Nicaragua News, 26 Jan. 2023)
Nicaragua among Countries with Highest Foreign Investment
The Secretariat of the Central American Monetary Council (SEMCA) published its “III Quarter 2022 Central America and Dominican Republic Balance of Payments” report: With US$1.16 billion in Net Flow of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) as of September 2022, Nicaragua has the third highest FDI attraction rate in the region, surpassed only by the Dominican Republic – US$3.19 billion and Costa Rica – US$2.2 billion. (Nicaragua News, 25 Jan. 2023)
More than 221,000 Books Being Delivered to Schools
This week the Ministry of Education will continue delivering books to students as well as briefcases for teachers and backpacks with school supplies for students. Salvador Vanegas, presidential advisor on educational issues, said on Jan. 29 that the delivery of 156,591 books is being completed nationally for first and second grade students. And the delivery of some 65,000 English books to students from first to sixth grade is being finalized. Vanegas said the educational materials have already reached all the communities of Río San Juan, Jinotega, Las Minas, Matagalpa, Chontales and the Caribbean Coast. The 2023 school year began at the end of January. See photo: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/noticias-generales/destacado/mined-entrega-mas-de-221-mil-libros-en-centros-educativos/ (Radio La Primerisima, 30 Jan. 2023)
President Promises Transportation Renewal
On Jan. 31 President Daniel Ortega announced that the Sandinista Government will continue acquiring more buses until the entire urban and interurban transportation fleet is renewed. During the ceremony of delivery of 150 buses sent by the Russian Federation to 150 transportation operators, the leader urged carriers to ensure the maintenance of the new units and to meet the demands of adults, youth, children, students and workers. “We salute the ambassador of the Russian Federation, as well as all the staff of the Russian embassy, who are always fully involved when we are working on these projects to bring transportation, to renew the vehicle fleet, to improve the quality of transportation,” he said. Ortega recalled that, in this new stage of the Revolution, the government brought 380 buses from the Russian Federation, which arrived in Managua in 2009 and 170 more in 2012. Also, in 2012, 350 buses were purchased from Mexico. In 2021 Nicaragua bought 250 buses from Russia. Ortega added that, in 2023, these 150 new buses were just acquired and another 150 units are on their way from Russia. See photos: HERE (Radio La Primerisima, 31 Jan. 2023)
Remittances grew by some 50% in 2022
On Jan. 29, the Central Bank published the remittance statistics for December 2022 – some US$337 million, 57.7% higher than the same month of 2021 which was US$214 million. Thus, in 2022 remittances were US$3.224 billion, a 50.2% growth over 2021. During 2022, 76.6% of remittances came from the United States, 8.6% from Costa Rica, 8.4% from Spain, 1.9% from Panama and 1.0% from Canada. Remittances from the US increased by US$1.099 billion with respect to 2021. (Radio La Primerisima, 30 Jan. 2023)
Briefs: January 26, 2023
Exports in 2022 Increased over 2021
From January to December 2022, exports reached US$7.36 billion, which represents an increase of US$865 million over 2021, as reported by the head of the Ministry of Development, Industry and Commerce, Jesús Bermúdez on Jan. 24. Bermudez said that 41% of exports, or US$3.1 billion, corresponded to agricultural products. The Free Trade Zones had US$3.52 billion in exports, 16% more than 2022. Clothing, gold, coffee, automotive harnesses, beef, tobacco, and cane sugar top the lists. Top export destinations were the US, Central America, Mexico and the European Union. (Radio La Primerisima, 24 Jan. 2023)
Geothermal Plant Expansion Increases Generation by 10.4 MW
On Jan. 19 the Canadian company, Polaris Energy, announced that the San Jacinto-Tizate Geothermal Plant Expansion Project has concluded. The US$19.6 million-dollar project increases by 10.4 MW the generating capacity of the plant. The San Jacinto-Tizate plant generated 326,779 MW of electricity between January and September 2022, registering US$30.8 million in sales, representing 68.7% of total production for the company during the period. (Nicaragua News, 20 Jan. 2023)
Nicaragua Has 92% Potable Water Coverage
On Jan. 19 Erving Barreda, head of the Nicaraguan Company of Aqueducts and Sewerage (ENACAL) said that 92% of the population has drinking water service, while in 2006 only 65% of homes had potable water. He said there are still neighborhoods with coverage only a few hours a day but the government wants homes to have water at least 20 hours a day. He added that by 2027 sanitary sewerage coverage with sewage treatment plants is projected to be 80%. Of the challenges for the period 2023-2027, Barreda said that ENACAL continues the expansion of the drinking water and sanitary sewerage and also its sustainability. This year 40 water projects will be inaugurated.
Barreda stated that “2022 was a record year in completing projects financed by the public investment budget resulting in nine sewer projects, among them Masaya, Bilwi, Condega, Niquinohomo, Catarina, San Juan de Oriente, Tola, Totogalpa and Juigalpa.” Emblematic water projects such as the one in Bilwi, for some 16,000 families, were completed. In addition to the urban center, six other communities were also served. San Juan del Sur’s system was expanded to reach more people. A large project is in progress in Leon with the construction of 12 tanks, 18 new wells, and more than 100 kilometers of piping costing US$40 million. In 2023, 17 cities will have improved and expanded water service helping 108,000 families, and 20 cities will have improved sanitation works.
Barreda explained that ENACAL will begin to generate solar energy and biogas energy to have its own power source. “When the wastewater purification process is carried out, methane gas is produced … these gases can move turbines and generate 1 MW of energy,” he explained. A projected solar energy plant is also intended to supply 15% of the energy used by ENACAL in its first stage. (Radio La Primerisima, 19 Jan. 2023)
Solid Growth Allows 5% Salary Increase
On Jan. 20, Vice President Rosario Murillo announced a 5% salary adjustment for all public servants starting February 1. Minister of Finance Iván Acosta noted that “the salary increase, with a big effect on the education and health sectors, represents US$43.8 million dollars of the National Budget for 2023 and is based on the solid economic growth of the country in 2022.” The measure benefits some 160,000 civil servants, including 40,000 working in the Ministry of Health and 64,000 in the Ministry of Education. (Informe Pastran, 20 Jan. 2023)
New Dialysis Center to Serve Carazo and Rivas
Advances continue to be seen in the health system of Carazo with the inauguration of a new nephrology-hemodialysis center in Jinotepe, Department of Carazo, which will serve that Department and Rivas. The Ministry of Health and the Social Security Heath Centers have 23 nephrology-hemodialysis centers with over 1,100 dialysis machines. The new center that will serve people in the departments of Carazo and Rivas has 78 new machines to attend up to 450 people a day. Jorge Acosta, FSLN political secretary in Carazo, said that “patients from Carazo and Rivas had to travel to Managua for treatment three times a week.” Mariano Madrigal, Jinotepe mayor said “This is part of the good will of the Sandinista Government, the will and … the good use of state resources to strengthen the health sector for the development of Nicaragua in health and education.” (TN8tv, 16 Jan. 2023)
Nicaragua Ranks High in Survey on Peace, Security, Economy
The Sandinista government continues to be among the best evaluated in the countries of the Americas, with 76.9% approval, according to a survey released Jan. 24 by the firm M & R Consultores. Problem solution, pandemic management, peace, security and the expectation of improving the economic situation were some of the indicators that made the Sandinista government score among the best in the region. The countries that follow in the ranking are the government of Rodrigo Chaves in Costa Rica with 68.4%, the government of Luis Abinader in the Dominican Republic with 61%, and that of Andrés Manuel López Obrador in Mexico with 56%. Further down the list is Joe Biden of the US with 38%, Alberto Fernández of Argentina with 33.2%, Gabriel Boric of Chile with 30% and at the bottom of the list is Guillermo Lasso of Ecuador with 12.6%. See Tables and graphs: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/noticias-generales/destacado/daniel-se-mantiene-entre-mejores-mandatarios-de-america/ (Radio La Primerisima, 24 Jan. 2023)
Nicaraguans Believe They Have Freedom of Expression
Last week M&R Consultants polling firm presented the results of its recent national survey “Public Opinion Monitoring System,” corresponding to the fourth quarter of last year. The survey indicates that 68.2% of Nicaraguans believe the fundamental aspect of a democracy is that the people have real opportunities; 71%state they are satisfied with the functioning of democracy in the country; 79.3% affirm that the fundamental rights of Nicaraguans are respected in the country and 92.5% believe there is complete freedom of expression in Nicaragua. (Nicaragua News, 19 Jan. 2023)
Córdoba to Dollar Exchange Rate Modified
On Jan. 23 the Central Bank announced that it had decided to establish the automatic devaluation of the exchange rate of the córdoba against the US dollar at 1% per annum, which means a reduction of 1% point with respect to the 2% devaluation rate prevailing to date. This rate will begin to be applied and published in the monthly table of the official exchange rate as of February 1, 2023. According to the BCN, this decision is based on the country’s stable public finances, properly financed balance of payments, the stability of the main variables of the financial system, an improvement in the levels of international reserves, and monetary and exchange rate stability. The reduction in the automatic devaluation will help offset the effects of international inflation in the economy and reinforce the predictability of the nominal exchange rate, thus strengthening the stability of the currency. (Radio La Primerisima, 23 Jan. 2023)
Nicaragua’s Message at the VII Summit of CELAC
On Jan. 24, at the VII Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean Countries (CELAC) held in Argentina, Nicaraguan Foreign Minister Denis Moncada stated that the region’s priorities include the fight against poverty, terrorism, coups d’état, organized crime, and all the other plagues that come to the region from other worlds. In the message from Nicaragua to the Heads of State and Presidents attending the CELAC Summit, Moncada said that “unity, which makes us strong, turns us into warriors of light, life and truth.” He rejected foreign intervention in any form, including aggressions, invasions, interferences, blockades, economic wars, offenses, threats, humiliations, occupations as well as sanctions, which are nothing more than “aggressions, all illegal, arbitrary and unilateral.” His message also called on the CELAC countries to resist and reject everything that endangers the future, “the luminous horizon of our peoples, where we do not allow any more plundering of our natural and cultural resources, and where the genocide imposed on us for centuries by the colonialist powers is not only denounced, but [our resistance] becomes a battle hymn against criminal wars in songs that demand peace.” He went in to say, “The world urgently needs justice and peace…respectful cooperation and solidarity. The world needs understanding, comprehension and affection. The better world that we all want to create urgently needs … solidarity and the ability to live together, sharing scientific and technological development.” (Radio La Primerisima, 24 Jan. 2023)
Thousands March to Remember Rubén Darío
The afternoon of Jan. 18 Sandinistas participated in a massive walk with the slogan “Nicaragua shines like a sun that never sets!” They marched in celebration of the 156th anniversary of the birth of the poet Rubén Darío. María Teresa Medina, from the Bertha Díaz neighborhood of Managua, said that this was one more demonstration of the support of the people for the Sandinista Government. “We are here once again supporting the achievements, supporting all the victories, supporting the benefits that day by day we are building step by step, together with our people,” she said. Sandinismo held the walk for heroes and martyrs on the day celebrating the birth of the “Prince of Castilian Letters,” Rubén Darío, she added. “A demonstration by youth, by the people – here there are workers, there are women, there are children and youth, divine treasure, as Rubén Dario used to say,” Medina said. The walk began in the El Dorado Park and concluded in the parking lot of the National Sovereignty Stadium. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/noticias-generales/generales/miles-de-sandinistas-participan-en-marcha/ (Radio La Primerisima, 18 Jan. 2023)
Some 37,000 Enrolled in Technical Education in 2023
The Nicaragua Technological Institute (INATEC) announced that the 2023 Technical Education Enrollment Campaign reported enrollment of 36,821 students, representing 80% compliance with the projected goal for the 2023 academic year that begins February 13th. INATEC Director, Loyda Barreda, stated that “the enrollment campaign that began January 9 has generated successful results, which we consider the first academic victory of 2023 because it reflects the trust that families place in the public technical education system.” She also explained that INATEC is offering enrollment in 66 technical areas in the 53 centers throughout the country and, for the sixth consecutive year, five technical areas will be taught online in administration, accounting, computing, customs management, and human resources management. (Nicaragua News, 23 Jan. 2023)
Oncology Surgery Campaigns Resume in 2023
The first oncology surgery campaign of 2023 began on Jan. 23 at the Manolo Morales Hospital in Managua. More than 45 patients from different parts of the country will have their right to free quality health care restored through these operations. Dr. Cristian Fonseca, Deputy Director of Medical Attention, explained that during six days they will perform operations on patients suffering from pancreatic, prostate, and thyroid cancers, among other pathologies. Fonseca said that other surgeries have been scheduled for this first semester and for the rest of the year as well. She added that the patients greatly benefit from these surgeries, which are totally free of charge and very expensive in a private hospital. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/noticias-generales/generales/inicia-primera-jornada-oncologica-en-managua/ (Radio La Primerisima, 23 Jan. 2023)
Chicken, Egg Production Grew in 2022
Nicaragua ended 2022 with 340 million pounds of chicken produced in technified and semi-technified farms, the National System of Production, Consumption and Commerce announced on Jan. 23. According to authorities, chicken production grew 7.5 percent in 2022 and 5.4 percent with respect to the goal established in the 2022 Production Plan. Also, 33.8 million boxes of eggs were produced in 2022, which is 4.8% higher than 2021. (Radio La Primerisima, 23 Jan. 2023)
British Newspaper Promotes Nicaraguan Tourism
On Jan. 20, the British newspaper “Daily Mail” published an article entitled, “Erupting with treasures: Birdlife, beaches, volcanoes… Nicaragua offers a wealth of riches for intrepid travelers.” The article states that “Although few British tourists visit or have any knowledge of the country, Nicaragua is a revelation, with its beaches and natural habitat that are more than a match for any country, and colonial cities, rich in culture and beauty; but perhaps most charming of all about Nicaragua is its poetic soul and the fact that it is a country that feels undiscovered yet offers a good infrastructure and plenty of excellent resorts and hotels. Nicaragua still feels exotically ‘other’ without the sterile reference points of global tourism where a sense of having a largely uncharted country to yourself is an increasingly elusive luxury.” (HERE; Nicaragua News, 23 Jan. 2023)
US and Canadian Delegation Calls for an End to Sanctions
Twenty-four US and Canadian citizens urged the governments of the United States and Canada to lift all aggressive measures imposed on Nicaragua. During a visit to Nicaragua from January 7 to 23, the delegation learned about the different programs implemented by the Sandinista Government and heard from citizens in many parts of the country. The participants noted that the different programs prioritize the needs of the population. In addition, they promote the entrepreneurship of Nicaraguan families, especially women. The delegation met with officials from many government ministries including the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and the Health Ministry as well as the National Assembly and the Women’s Police Stations. In addition, they had exchanges with women from neighborhoods and communities around the country. The visit was organized by the Benjamin Linder House – Jubilee House Community and the Alliance for Global Justice. See photos: https://radiolaprimerisima.com/noticias-generales/generales/comite-de-solidaridad-pide-levantar-agresiones-contra-nicaragua/ (Radio La Primerisima, 23 Jan. 2023)
Briefs: January 19, 2023
Growth in Exports
The Inter-American Development Bank published the 2023 edition of its estimates on trends in trade for Latin America and the Caribbean which reports that in 2022 Nicaragua exports grew by 14.6%. The report noted that, “After an average increase of 29.5% in exports in 2021, Nicaragua exports closed out 2022 with an average growth of 14.6% mainly due to the greater flow of textile products and premium coffee.” It also noted that “although exports from Latin America and the Caribbean entered a deceleration phase in 2022, an increase in prices was observed, mainly benefitting economies of the region like Nicaragua that are net exporters of basic goods.” And, on Jan. 10, the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) published its report titled “2022 International Trade Outlook for Latin America and the Caribbean: The challenge of boosting manufacturing exports” which states that Nicaragua exports totaled US$7.106 billion between January and November 2022, a growth of 27.4%. “This growth in exports is mainly due to improvements in quality and productivity of manufacturing products, growth in trade integration in Central America and improved performance in the Free Trade Agreement between Central America, the Dominican Republic and the United States (DR -CAFTA).” (Nicaragua News, 11 and 17 Jan. 2023)
Poll Finds High Approval of Government
On January 10, M&R Consultores polling firm released its public opinion survey corresponding to the fourth quarter of 2022. The survey found that 76.9% of Nicaraguans approve of the work of the government headed by President Daniel Ortega; 74.4% believe the government is leading the country in the right direction; 80.8% state that the government works for the benefit of the entire population; 71.2% believe the national economy will be stronger in 2023 and 75.6% said the country has progressed over the last ten years. (Nicaragua News, 11 Jan. 2023)
Road Expansion Shortens Travel Time to Southern Border
On Jan. 19 the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will inaugurate a new 18-kilometer-long section of the road that goes from Masaya to Catarina. This four-lane highway benefits 235,324 inhabitants of Masaya, Catarina, Diriá, Diriomo, Nandaime and Granada reducing travel times, solving road congestion problems, facilitating the expansion of businesses and promoting efficient production, agribusiness, the handicraft trade and tourism. See photos: HERE (Radio La Primerisima, 16 Jan. 2023)
Public Defenders and Offices Increased Coverage in 2022
In 2022 the Public Defender’s Office assisted 356 child and adolescent victims of sexual crimes. The specialized public defenders also provided assistance to women survivors of violence against women. These services are part of the Specialized Attention Service for Children and Adolescent Victims of Sex Crimes, which the institution began to provide last year. “There are two modalities, we support women and also give reinforced accompaniment to minors who are victims of sex crimes. This has taken a lot of work: The Supreme Court approved several protocols, one for specialized attention to children and adolescents, another for specialized training of judges and magistrates on how to deal with these cases and still another protocol involving the Institute of Legal Medicine,” Clarisa Ibarra, director of the Ombudsman’s Office, explained to La Primerísima. There are 18 specialized delegations nationwide where citizens will find public defenders committed and trained to give this type of attention. “We also have this in Puerto Cabezas, Siuna, and Waspán and the Supreme Court approved a psychologist and a forensic expert in each town who speak the language of the Miskito ethnic group,” she said. The Ombudsman’s Office also distributed more than US$7 million in collected child support payments benefiting more than 10,000 children. The institution also facilitated around one million dollars in payments of various kinds from employers to workers, serving 220 people, 69% of them men and 39% women. In 2023, the Public Defender’s Office marks 24 years providing free legal services to low-income and vulnerable people. The institution has expanded its coverage, currently providing services in 147 of the 153 existing municipalities. In 2022, the number of public defenders grew from 430 to 474 which allows for a more efficient defense of people’s rights. (Radio La Primerisima, 16 Jan. 2023)
System Against Money-Laundering Strengthened
General Director of the Financial Analysis Unit Denis Membreño announced on Jan. 17, while addressing the National Assembly, that at the end of 2022 Nicaragua was removed from the risk list of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the European Union’s blacklist, due to the excellent results of Nicaragua’s National Anti-Money Laundering System. Nicaragua has a consistent and strengthened system against the crime of money laundering and organized crime. Membreño explained that the exit from the lists facilitates access to financial resources on concessional terms and is a victory for the Nicaraguan people, its economy and financial security, in addition to increasing competitiveness at multilateral and rating agencies. “Nicaragua overcame the status of Jurisdiction with Strategic Deficiency and is recognized for its commitment and effort to strengthen its national anti-money laundering system, placing it as a cooperating country that knows and applies the international standards governing the matter,” he said. According to the report, the supervision of regulated entities increased 34% with respect to 2021 and financial intelligence work increased by 116% in the number of suspicious transaction reports. Membreño highlighted that for 2023, the Financial Analysis Unit will continue to further consolidate the National Anti-Money Laundering System. (Radio La Primerisima, 17 Jan. 2023)
Vaccination against Human Papilloma Virus to Be Available
The Ministry of Health will vaccinate girls aged 10 to 12 against the Human Papilloma Virus to prevent cervical cancer, said Deputy Andrés Zamora, member of the Health Commission of the National Assembly. Dr. Zamora highlighted the coverage in vaccines that in 2023 will add up to 18 types. “As every year, we are going to carry out a massive vaccination days between April and May; we are going to vaccinate nearly 100% of the population against Covid-19 and we are going to introduce a new vaccine against the human papilloma virus for girls between 10 and 12 years of age, which would mean 18 vaccines at national level that are applied free of charge to the entire population,” said Zamora. This year, MINSA will update the local and hospital health emergency plans to face emergencies, disasters, outbreaks and epidemics at a national level. Zamora also emphasized that a thousand weekly health fairs will be held during the year, accompanied by 67 mobile clinics; this year 12 new units will be added. (Radio La Primerisima, 12 Jan. 2023)
Growth in Dairy Exports in 2022
Oscar López, a member of the executive board of the Nicaragua Dairy Sector Chamber (CANISLAC), reported that 67 million kilos of dairy products were exported in 2022, generating US$200 million in sales, an increase of 5% over 2021. The main markets for Nicaragua dairy products last year were El Salvador, Guatemala, and the United States. (Nicaragua News, 12 Jan. 2023)
Only Biogas Electricity Generating Plant in Central America
Representatives of the Nicaragua Water and Sewage Company and the National Electricity Transmission Company evaluated progress on the construction of a biogas electricity generating plant located at Lake Xolotlán Wastewater Treatment Plant in Managua which will contribute one MW of electricity to the national electricity grid when it begins operation. The project financed by the general budget with support from the German Development Bank (KFW) is 75% complete and will be operational in July. [Note: a megawatt of capacity will produce electricity that equates to about the same amount of electricity consumed by 400 to 900 homes in a year.] (Nicaragua News, 16 Jan. 2023)
Expansion of Water System in San Juan del Sur
The Nicaragua Water and Sewage Company inaugurated a project to expand the potable water system in San Juan del Sur, Rivas Department, benefiting 23,800 inhabitants. The US$3.1 million-dollar project was financed by the general budget with support from the Interamerican Development Bank. (Nicaragua News, 17 Jan. 2023)
Healthy Schools Plan 2023
The Ministry of Education has announced that a Healthy Schools Plan to protect the health of students and teachers will be implemented in all schools through health care campaigns, educational talks, health promotion and disease prevention activities, with the members of the educational community.
In the year 2023 the following activities will be developed:
Attention in Healthy Schools
- We will measure visual acuity in primary schools to identify children and adolescents with vision problems in a timely manner and provide glasses to those who require them.
- We will carry out oral health campaigns for the prevention and treatment of dental cavities.
- We will apply fluoride to the teeth of children in elementary schools.
- We will give talks and practical demonstrations of tooth brushing.
- We will carry out toothpaste campaigns at least once a year, for those who require it.
- We will organize blood pressure campaigns in all the schools of the country, to detect children and young people with high blood pressure.
- We will develop a program to detect hearing and speech problems in schools.
- From February to April, we will carry out the nutritional census in all primary schools to identify nutritional problems and guarantee their follow-up.
- We will administer, in April, vitamin A and worm parasite medicine to all children and adolescents, in all primary and secondary schools.
- We will carry out campaigns to detect and eliminate head lice in children in primary schools.Prevention and Immunization in Healthy Schools
- We will vaccinate against COVID-19 in the schools
- We will promote the National Vaccination Campaign in primary and secondary schools to complete the immunization schedules, which we will carry out in April.
- We will vaccinate girls from 10 to 12 years old against the human papilloma virus during the second semester.
- We will measure the concentration of residual chlorine in the water for human consumption in the schools and we will provide chlorine to apply to drinking water.
- We will apply larvicides every four weeks in all schools in the containers where water is stored to prevent the growth of mosquitoes [not drinking water].
- We will fumigate for mosquito control, before the beginning of the school year and before the return of the semester vacation period.
- We will develop two rat extermination campaigns during the year to prevent leptospirosis.
- We will train students and teachers of primary and secondary schools about the Family and Community Health Model and its approach to health promotion and disease prevention.
- We will teach school teachers and students topics like hand washing, garbage management, safe water, personal hygiene and food hygiene.
- We will train teachers and parents in all schools in the country to identify early warning signs of addictions in children and adolescents.
- We will conduct talks with teachers and parents about the importance of good communication with youth to promote values and build trust within the family to address early problems of harassment, abuse, violence and others.
- We will give talks on sexual and reproductive health with high school students.
- We will give talks to parents, teachers and students about the importance of proper nutrition, physical activity and healthy behaviors to live free of addictions (alcohol, tobacco and drugs).
- We will conduct, in secondary schools, sessions for self-care of mental health, self-esteem and good treatment, with relaxation therapies, meditation and other alternative medicine therapies. (Canal4.com.ni, 17 Jan. 2023)
Briefs: January 12, 2023
2022 Production Results in High Food Security
The Minister of Finance and Public Credit, Iván Acosta reported that there was 4% growth in agricultural production yields in 2022. “The government of President Daniel Ortega has brought greater production, greater yields, greater productivity with a strategic investment in technology transfer to provide more services to producers,” said Acosta. “Of the 24 products in the country’s food basket only three were imported. The production of 21 items was sufficient to ensure food security, market supply, price stability and export surplus in some cases,” he explained. Production has remained stable in the last five years at around nine million quintals [hundred weights]. Red beans have had an increase in production in the last five years of 23% and in yield of 25% and in 2022 grew 2%. Rice production to date is 6.150 million quintals. Arabica coffee in the last six cycles has grown 42% with a yield gain of 6% and 3.850 million quintals is the result in 2022. Peanuts grew by 7% with a yield gain of 7%. Cocoa production grew by 66% with a yield gain of 11%. African palm has grown by 180% with a yield gain of 72%. (Informe Pastran, 9 Jan. 2023)
Foreign Direct Investment Increased over 2021
A Central Bank report on the “III Quarter 2022 Balance of Payments Results” states that gross foreign direct investment (FDI) reached US$1.565 billion between January and September of 2022, a 37.8% increase compared to the same period in 2021. The report also noted that FDI Net Flow was US$1.16 billion, a 21.8% growth over the amount registered by September 2021. (Nicaragua News, 10 Jan. 2023)
Nicaragua: Number One Country Where People Say They are at Peace
According to a recent Gallup Poll, Nicaragua is the country where the highest percentage of people say they are always at peace. When asked, “How often are you at peace with your thoughts and feelings?” a whopping 73% of respondents in Nicaragua said “always.” Nicaragua also has a high “positive experience index,” according to a separate Gallup poll. This means those polled have positive emotions about their perceived living standards, personal freedoms, and social life. Of the top 10 countries where people said they always feel at peace, seven of them are in Latin America, a region where many countries also had a high positive experience index. (CNBC Make it, 7 Jan. 2023)
Ortega at National Assembly Swearing In
At the inauguration of the 38th session of the National Assembly, President Daniel Ortega emphasized that this year’s General Budget will continue to benefit the Nicaraguan people. The president recalled how the 2018 attempted coup d’état was defeated and how peace, stability, productive activities, and investments have resumed. “It is really a miracle that a country with an economy as small as ours, with resources as limited as ours, has done so much and continues to do so much, as indicated in this year’s budget approved by the National Assembly. We will continue doing much in favor of the poor, in favor of the peasants, in favor of youth, in favor of women, in favor of the Nicaraguan people,” said the President. Ortega recalled that when the Sandinista Front returned to government in 2007, a great national unity unprecedented in the country’s history was achieved, but “the empire was rabid at seeing the success of the revolution advancing again in the economy, in health, in education. So the empire conspired …. investing millions towards the attempted coup d’état in April [2018]. It was a bloody coup d’état… not even those sentenced to life imprisonment can pay for the damage caused to Nicaragua, to the families of those killed. The coup perpetrators, the terrorists, caused major damage to the economy with the blockades they maintained, even blocking international traffic,” he said. “In the end there was nothing else to do but restore order; logically there was the Police, with the voluntary police, and with the Army guarding strategic areas, and we were able to defeat the coup and then return to the path we had been opening.”
The President pointed out that “no matter how well-intentioned a government may be, if there is no peace, these programs cannot go forward. Without peace, schools, roads, hospitals simply cannot be built. We already know how terrible war is, the war that Nicaragua has lived through, the attempted coups that Nicaragua has lived through, how much blood, how much pain caused by terrorists, how much damage to the economy. But in the midst of the coup d’état, we were still inaugurating infrastructure and, after security and peace were restored for all Nicaraguans, then came this new push, because the country had been acting with enormous strength from 2007 until the coup attempt.” The President called on all Nicaraguans in this New Year to work together with energy, firmness and discipline, but to sleep with one eye open because the terrorists continue to conspire. He quoted the proverb that says “From the still waters, deliver us, Lord,” adding, “We must not trust because the terrorists are always conspiring and are financed by the US government and European governments. They continue to conspire and we cannot trust them.” “The campaign to free the criminals is coming; while in the United States where there are more than a thousand of those who entered the Congress in prison, there are more than a thousand processed prisoners, many of them already sentenced to 20 to 30 years in prison. The US also applies justice,” he pointed out. (Radio La Primerisima, 9 Jan. 2023)
Municipal Authorities Installed
On Jan. 10 the Supreme Electoral Council (CSE) held the swearing-in ceremony for 6,392 municipal authorities elected for the 2023-2027 term of office, including mayors, vice mayors and council-members. During her speech, the President of the CSE, Magistrate Brenda Rocha, stated that “Nicaragua continues to achieve historic milestones in Latin America with the strengthening of our democracy in the hands of the people, guaranteeing gender equity in political participation, which allows us to say that for the first time in the history of our country the majority of mayoral positions were obtained by women. Today they take on the commitment to work to continue advancing prosperity, progress and tranquility.” (Nicaragua News, 10 Jan. 2023)
Creativity Centers to Offer Courses in Art, Culture and Traditions
Mayors around the nation are opening houses of creativity. In Managua, in coordination with the Nicaraguan Institute of Culture (INC), the municipality will inaugurate four new Houses of Culture and Creativity where 16 new Schools of Art and Culture will be operating to support the formation of new young talent. These schools will offer more than 52 courses for children and adolescents. Some of the classes are: Acting, oral and written narration, corporal and oral expression, watercolor painting, drawing technique, oral theater, guitar, keyboards, percussion, violin, cello, singing (soloist, choral), piano and keyboard, classical dance, salsa, bachata, merengue, rumba, flamenco, folk dancing, modern dance, ballet choreography, contemporary dance technique, ballet theory, theory of Nicaraguan folk dancing, Pacific, North, Central and Caribbean steps, use of costumes by region, sculpture course in plaster and metal, engraving course, drawing and graphite classes, painting in acrylic and watercolor, use of recycled materials, handicrafts with recycled materials, papier-mâché, juggling with: hoops, balls, spikes, cariocas, flags; balancing with stilts, unicycles, inverted hand balancing, floor acrobatics, slapstick (comic acrobatics), face painting, balloon twisting, gymnastics courses, and more. (Radio La Primerisima, 6 Jan. 2023)
Celebration of Free Education on January 11
The educational community will celebrate the “National Education Day” with academic, cultural and sports activities in recognition and commemoration of the fact that on January 11, 2007, the Sandinista government declared free education. This decree left without any legal effect the model of school autonomy that reigned previously and also prohibited any financial charges to families. These fees had limited access to education to a whole generation of children and adolescents who were victims of neoliberal policies. This year, which marks the 16th anniversary of the second Sandinista government, progress and achievements in education are being celebrated as expressed in:
–The reduction in the number of teachers without degrees, from 47% in 2006 to 2% in 2022, moving towards the training and updating of 100% of teachers in the country.
–Expansion of educational coverage with appropriate models in both rural and urban areas.
–Comprehensive training of students through the promotion and practice of values, art, culture, identity and sports.
–School meals.
–Expansion of the national wireless internet network in educational centers throughout the country.
–Construction, expansion and rehabilitation of school infrastructure, among other relevant educational advances.
In each municipality, students, teachers, parents, school principals and delegates will enjoy a day of activities that include parades, gymnastics, festive piñatas, sports and traditional games, beautification of schools, food fairs, exhibition of murals, cantatas, poetry recitals, forums, colloquiums and other cultural events. (Radio La Primerisima, 10 Jan. 2023)
Initial Hearing for Former Bishop Álvarez
In the Courts of Managua, the initial criminal proceeding was held where former bishop Rolando Álvarez appeared. He is accused of crimes of conspiracy to undermine national integrity and for propagation of false news through information technologies. Álvarez was bishop in Matagalpa. (TN8.tv, 10 Jan. 2023)
Briefs for Dec. 8, 2022 to Jan.4, 2023
Nicaragua: Best Project Execution Rate
During a press conference with journalists held in Tegucigalpa on Dec. 7, the President of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), Dante Mossi, stated that “Nicaragua is the country with the best execution rate of its project portfolio. It is the country with the best highway infrastructure and the new phase of this program is already scheduled to be launched in 2023, along with the financing for construction of the Bluefields Port. Likewise, we congratulate Nicaragua for accepting the electrical mobility challenge and quickly installing 60 charging stations, demonstrating the great commitment of the country to environmental protection and sustainable development.” The Nicaragua Government and CABEI are currently carrying out a 28-project portfolio totaling more than US$1.89 billion for development of productive infrastructure, environmental protection and the fight against poverty which includes building of new hospitals, roads, electricity coverage, low-cost housing, as well as water and sanitation facilities. (Nicaragua News, 8 Dec. 2022)
European Commission: Nicaragua Is Not a Financial Threat
On Dec. 20 the European Commission announced that Nicaragua is no longer part of the list of high-risk countries with deficiencies in their regime against money laundering and financing of terrorism (AML/CFT). The press release states that “the European Commission in keeping with the recommendations and updates issued by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in October this year, has concluded that Nicaragua no longer represents a threat to the international financial system in terms of money laundering and financing of terrorism, after applying the action plan agreed with FATF to resolve deficiencies.” [Note: Part of Nicaragua’s actions against money laundering involved investigating and closing some non-governmental organizations that received millions of dollars from the US and European governments, but did not provide reports to the government.] (Nicaragua News, 21 Dec. 2022)
6,088 to Take Office in Municipalities
Vice President Rosario Murillo announced that President Daniel Ortega will hold a national meeting with the municipal authorities elected November 6, 2022. The Supreme Electoral Council announced that between January 10 and 20 credentials will be delivered to guarantee the inauguration of the citizens who were elected to occupy 6,088 public positions in the 153 municipalities of the country last November. “On January 10, the newly elected municipal authorities receive their credentials, and then they take office. We will have a national installation session [with President Ortega],” said Murillo. (Radio La Primerisima, 2 Jan. 2023)
More than US$61 Million in Loans to Women
The Director of the Government microloan “Zero Usury” Program, Leonor Corea, reported that between January and November 2021, US$61.1 million was provided to 150,500 women to start or expand small businesses in the country’s 153 municipalities, promoting women’s entrepreneurship and the revitalization of the national economy.” The “Zero Usury” program is part of the Plan to Strengthen Productive and Organizational Capabilities of the Creative Economy Model. (Nicaragua News, 8 Dec. 2022)
Nicaragua with Best Covid Vaccination Rate in Region
The Pan American Health Organization reported that with 92.9% of the population fully vaccinated [two shots] against COVID-19, Nicaragua is the country in the region with the highest percentage of fully vaccinated people, followed by Costa Rica (83.5%); Panama (72.2%); El Salvador (67.2%); Honduras (57.2%); Guatemala (38.5%). (Nicaragua News, 22 Dec. 2022)
Fully Registered Property Titles Delivered
The Office of the Attorney General announced that 800 new property titles were delivered the week of Dec. 20 to families in Chinandega, Granada, Jinotega, Río San Juan, and Rivas departments, as well as the Northern Caribbean Autonomous Region. Solicitor General Wendy Morales stated that the titles were delivered house to house. (Nicaragua News, 22 Dec. 2022)
Managua Baseball Stadium Renamed “Sovereignty”
On Dec. 16 the authorities of the Mayor’s Office of Managua, made official the new name of the National Baseball Stadium – Soberania [Sovereignty]. Managua Mahyor Reyna Rueda said “sovereignty in our actions, for all our hearts, sovereignty in our journey that unites each and every one of us as a Nicaraguan family.” (Radio La Primerisima, 16 Dec. 2022)
Nicaragua with 99.2% Electricity Coverage
Nicaragua is concluding the year 2022 with electricity coverage of 99.245%; and 70% generation from renewable sources. Forbes magazine recently highlighted Costa Rica and Nicaragua as the Central American countries with the highest electricity coverage. (Nicaragua News, 22 Dec. 2022)
A Million Students to Receive School Backpacks
The Ministry of Education is preparing to hand out more than one million new school backpacks for the school year which starts in February, announced Vice President Rosario Murillo on Jan. 3. They contain notebooks, pencils, crayons, colored pencils and other school supplies, as well as a glass, plate and spoon. In addition, more than 60,000 briefcases will be given to teachers with the necessary items to plan and teach their classes. Murillo also announced that counseling offices are working to increase the strength and capacity of services for the care of families and schools. Among other things, they work to keep young people free of addictions in a world culture that promotes the consumption of substances that damage human health. (Radio La Primerisima, 3 Jan. 2023)
Increase in Remittances
The Central Bank published statistics on remittances noting that, in October, they totaled US$319.9 million, exceeding by 69.0% those registered in the same month last year (US$189.3 million). In cumulative terms, remittances totaled US$2.6 billion for the year, a 47.6% increase over the same period last year (US$1.75 billion). Nearly eighty percent came from the US; 7.6% from Costa Rica; 7.2% from Spain; and 1.7% from Panama. (Radio La Primerisima, 16 Dec. 2022)
Inauguration of the 177th Women’s Police Station in Veracruz
On Dec. 21, the Nicaraguan Police inaugurated the 177th Women’s Police Station in the community of Veracruz in the municipality of Nindirí, Department of Masaya. Commissioner General Johana Plata, national head of the Women’s Police Stations, said that “in 2022 we have been developing house to house visits in communities, counties, trainings, talks with women; and we created and handed out the booklet, Women, Laws and Mechanisms for the Prevention of Femicide.” She added, “It’s a booklet with information about how to place a complaint and where to file the complaint in crimes of rape, sexual abuse and intimidation.” She said that the effort and commitment must be from everyone, stating, “we are looking for that closeness, trust, communication and empathy with women so that more women will have confidence to place a complaint.” Plata said that the stations have a specialized and trained staff to ensure an immediate and timely response to complaints which includes monitoring and accompaniment. (Radio La Primerisima, 21 Dec. 2022)
US Investment Company Approves Credit for Small Businesses
The Fundación para el Apoyo a la Microempresa (FAMA), a Nicaraguan micro finance institution, and the US micro finance investment company MicroVest announced the approval of a global credit line contract for US$4.5 million in support of the economic reactivation of small, medium, and micro-businesses in the productive, commercial, and service sectors with special attention to women-led initiatives. https://microvestfund.com/nicaragua-a-lesson-in-resilience/ (Nicaragua News, 19 Dec. 2022)
Minimum Wages Negotiated for FTZ Workers
Thanks to a tripartite agreement between the government, labor unions and business owners, fair and equitable salary levels were agreed upon that allow the workers of all the companies that are in the free trade zones to satisfy their basic needs, as well as to guarantee economic and productive stability. The parties agreed on the minimum salary increases to be applied without exclusion in all the companies subject to the special FTZ fiscal regime for the next five years in the period from 2023-2027. These minimum wage categories became effective as of January 1, 2023. For 2023 the monthly minimum salary in the free trade zones will be US$220, an increase of 8%; for 2024, US$237, an 8% increase; in 2025, US$253, a 7% increase; for 2026, US$270, an increase of 6.7%; and in 2027, US$288, a 6.7% increase. This tripartite agreement ensures growth in investment, productivity and labor stability in free zone companies. This is only the minimum wage; many workers earn more than US$325 per month due to incentives and production. In the call center companies, the minimum salaries range between US$600 and US$650 per month. The salaries of free zone workers have improved notably since 2007 when the salary was around US$70 per month. The policies of rapprochement and understanding of workers’ needs have improved the income of employees. In the Department of Estelí, the free zone companies generate US$67 million a year in salaries. This year the number of employees in free trade zones was 140,000 and the plan is to reach 150,000 in 2023. (Radio La Primerisima, 3 Jan. 2023)
China-Latin America Trade Reaches New Heights
In 2022, China-Latin America cooperation took a big step forward. Argentina and Nicaragua joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative, and figures showed that trade between China and Latin America reached a record high in 2021. Official data showed that trade in 2021 amounted to US$450 billion, up 41% year on year, among which both imports and exports reached record levels of US$222.58 billion and US$229.01 billion, respectively. China continued to be the region’s second largest trading partner. (Informe Pastran, 3 Jan. 2023)
Foreign Minister Moncada Attends Lula’s Inauguration
Foreign Minister Denis Moncada is representing Nicaragua at the presidential inauguration of President Luiz Ignacio Lula de Silva in Brazil. “Moncada will be arriving at midnight on Dec. 31 to participate in the celebration of this great victory of the Brazilian people who have chosen a different path, a path that honors their struggles, that recognizes their rights, and that goes forward to a future of light, life and truth,” said Vice President Rosario Murillo. (Radio La Primerisima, 31 Dec. 2022)